Gary Stewart, Service Manager at insurethebox said: “Wintry driving conditions can be a challenge for even the most experienced drivers – and for new drivers black ice, snow or heavy rain can be especially daunting. They can be caught out by black ice on an ungritted road or temporarily blinded by the glare of the bright winter sun.
“Now we are well and truly in the winter months, it’s important, particularly for new drivers, to know how to react in different weather conditions and to spot the potential hazards. For instance, in wet weather, stopping distances could double and may be 10 times greater on icy roads. And rural roads are especially hazardous for younger drivers, due to higher speed limits, tight corners and narrow lanes. Plus, the risks increase as overhanging trees mean ice may linger for longer and surfaces may not be gritted as well as on main roads.
“But by taking time to understand the risks and adjust their behaviour, young drivers can stay safe this winter”.
insurethebox also believes that a few simple steps in vehicle preparation will help young drivers cope with winter motoring. It’s important to check fuel, oil, water and windscreen wash levels as well as get tyres checked. Plus, if embarking on a long journey, it makes sense to pack an emergency kit with additional warm clothing and blankets, food and drinks.
“In severe weather, breakdown services will be stretched, and drivers could find themselves waiting for an extended period of time for help to arrive. So, it’s crucial drivers and passengers have the means to keep themselves warm and well in severe conditions,” concluded Gary Stewart.
WINTER MOTORING TIPS FROM INSURETHEBOX
• Do the 20p test – the law states that tyres need to have at least 3mm of tread in a continuous band around the central ¾ of the tyre
• Keep headlights and windows clean and clear
• Keep windscreen washer fluid topped up and add de-icer solutions ahead of temperatures dropping
• Check wiper blades are clean and clear, and the wiper rubber is still in contact with the frame of the blade
• It can take 10 times longer to stop on slippery roads, so drivers should consider their speed and allow extra room from the car in front
• Apply brakes gently in snow and ice
• Be extra careful when visibility drops
• Pack an emergency kit, including warm clothing and other breakdown essentials such as reflective gear, a blanket, torch and phone charger
• Take extra food and drink in case of an emergency
• Make sure the fuel tank is always at least a quarter full to allow for getting delayed in traffic in bad weather
• Allow extra time for winter journeys, including time to de-ice the car before setting off
• Ensure you have ‘all round’ visibility before setting off – clear the windscreen, side and rear windows
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