Avoid a driving disaster this winter

Harsh winter weather conditions can make driving very dangerous at this time of year. Here are my eight top tips to help you stay safe and sound on the roads this season…

Darker evenings and colder weather cause havoc on the roads every winter, and this unfortunately leads to an increased number of car insurance claims.

According to research by More Th>n, motorists are 50% more likely to breakdown in January, February and March when temperatures are colder, than during any other month of the year.

To help protect both you and your car from costly catastrophes this winter, here are eight checks you should carry out before you hit the road.

1. Get a winter service

If you haven't done so already, it's a good idea to book your car into a garage to have it checked over by a mechanic.

It is better to find out now if there is anything wrong with your car so you can get it fixed before the weather gets any worse.

2. Check your tyres

When the roads are icy and wet, it's crucial your car's tyres are in tip top condition to reduce the risk of skidding. Ensure the tread depth meets the legal requirement of 1.6mm and check the pressure.

Pumping up your tyres should also increase your car's fuel efficiency and help reduce your petrol costs. You can find out more about how to make your fuel go further in my article 'Six ways to put the brake on car costs.'

3. Inspect your lights

Darker evenings and fog can make it more difficult to see, and be seen, on the roads. Make sure all your lights are all working, and replace any broken bulbs.

It's also important you ensure your windscreen and mirrors are clean, your wiper blades are in good condition and to top up your screenwash if necessary. Always check your windows are completely clear of ice before you go on your way. However, avoid using hot water on your windows as this can cause your screen to crack.

4. Look under the bonnet

During the winter months, it's important to keep a close eye on your car's oil, brake fluid and anti freeze levels.

Ensure you also check the battery is charged and in good condition as you will be using your heater and lights more, making your battery work harder.

5. Pack an emergency kit

Put together an emergency survival kit and keep it in your car in case you break down or have an accident. Include items such as a warm coat, blanket, torch, first aid kit, food and a fully charged mobile phone.

Make sure you also have the telephone number for your breakdown service and car insurance company close to hand.

6. Watch out for frosting

With frosty mornings often comes an increase in car crime.

Opportunist thieves roam the icy streets looking for vehicles left unattended while their owner warms up the engine and then goes back inside the house to get ready for work.

This is known as 'frosting.' Be aware that if your car is stolen and you had left your keys in the ignition, your car insurance provider is likely to consider this negligent and refuse to pay out a penny.

7. Allow extra time

In icy and frosty conditions it's important to keep your speed down and keep a safe distance between you and the car in front. You should normally allow 2 seconds between you and the vehicle in front, but this should be doubled in bad weather conditions.

Remember that other drivers are likely to be travelling at a slower pace, so try to be patient. Plan your journey carefully in advance, check the weather before you leave and always allow extra time to reach your destination.

Make sure you pay extra attention to the road and try not to brake or accelerate suddenly - especially when you are going around corners.

8. Check your cover

Now is a good time to go through your car insurance policy with a fine tooth comb and check you have the right level of cover for you.

For example, if you drive an expensive car you are rather fond of it may be worth upgrading your cover to fully comprehensive insurance. On the other hand if your car is old and isn't worth much you might be content to opt for cheaper third party, fire and theft cover. However, be aware that this type of policy will only cover you for any damage you cause to another person's vehicle, and not damage to your own car.

You can check out more ideas for ways to keep your car insurance premiums down in my article '10 simple ways to save on car costs' or Laura Starkey's article '9 ways to cut your car insurance costs.'

Finally, it's a sensible idea to consider investing in breakdown cover. This will offer you peace of mind that if you do break down on a cold, dark winter's night, you will not be left stranded in the middle of nowhere.

**Articles featured on BeatThatQuote.com are for information purposes only and reflect the views of individual writers. Articles are not, and should not be considered as, financial advice. BeatThatQuote.com strongly encourages our readers not to rely solely on information contained within our website, but to conduct their own research and seek independent advice about the financial products they purchase.**

Tags for this article