As winter closes in, drivers generally face a unique range of different hazards due to changing weather conditions. Fortunately, there are a number of measures that road users can take to better ensure their safety.
Not only can taking precautionary measures in winter prevent accidents, but they may also reduce the chance of you being stranded by the roadside in harsh conditions. Outlined below are three tips for safer winter driving.
Use your accelerator and brakes cautiously
Later in the year, tires tend to lose traction more easily. Accelerating too hastily could result in the wheels of your vehicle spinning. This has the potential to be extremely dangerous, because you may lose control of the vehicle. Applying the accelerator in a more careful manner can reduce the chances of wheel spins, which negates some risk to your safety.
Also, it may be helpful to take a more cautious approach when operating the brakes. Drivers often opt to rely more on changing to a lower gear in order to reduce speed. Again, this negates the risk of you potentially losing control of the vehicle.
Keep a safe distance
It is not uncommon for road users to underestimate how long it can take them to stop in icy conditions. It may be of benefit to engage in defensive driving and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front. Typically, in normal conditions, it is recommended to keep a distance of at least three seconds. However, this may be extended in colder conditions.
Carefully plan your route
It may help to ensure your safety by investing some extra time in planning your route. If you usually take narrow rural lanes, it could help to take a direction that sticks to larger roads and highways. Roadways often require treatment during the winter time, and it is possible that equipment may not have been able to reach more isolated locations.
Taking precautionary measures during colder periods could be in your best interests. If you have been injured in a road traffic accident, then it might be possible to make a legal claim for compensation.