Essential tips for driving in ice and snow

With the cold weather set to continue, the SIMI is urging all motorists to take extreme care on our icy roads by taking on board these simple tips.

Before you begin your journey

Check local weather and traffic reports
Plan your route on major roads were possible as these are more likely to have been gritted

Checks

Tyres

It is important that your tyre pressure is correct as tyre pressure decreases in colder weather and this affects traction. Check your tyre pressure when tyres are cold so that they correspond to your manufacturer’s specifications (found in manual or door pillar)
Ideally tread depth should be in the region of 3mm as deeper tread depth is more effective in clearing water on the roads
Windows
Don’t use water to defrost your windows. Hot water can crack your screen and it will just re–freeze as it cools, either on the screen or on the ground where you’re standing, which could prove dangerous. Use a scraper and de-icer instead.
Make sure wipers are in good condition and use screenwash with the proper additive, washing up liquid will foam up and can reduce visibility.

Lights

Check that all your lights are working and make sure your headlights are properly aimed
Clear any dirt or snow from headlights

Fuel

Driving safely on icy roads

Ensure your headlights are on
Pull off in second gear
Don’t tailgate – stopping distances are 10 times longer in ice/snow
Avoid overtaking
When driving on the flat, stay in the highest gear possible
When driving downhill, choose 3rd or 4th gear
Be particularly careful on tree-lined roads. Trees prevent the sun’s rays from reaching the road which could be still icy when everywhere else has thawed. Also, black ice is common in shaded areas
Reduce speed on turns to prevent skidding
If you are skidding/spinning, gently turn the wheel in the same direction as the skid
If you see an icy patch ahead, brake before it
Is your car front or rear wheel drive?
Front-wheel drives handle better in ice and snow
Rear-wheel drives can result in excessive sliding on corners

ABS/no ABS?

ABS will automatically prevent wheels from locking
If you do not have ABS, gently but rapidly pump the brakes when the road is slippery
Do not ‘jam’ on your brakes if you begin to slide as it may cause your wheels to lock and your car to spin

From SIMI

0 Comments