Winters in Britain can easily throw people off their guard. Even professionals can find themselves dwelling on the best practices since the weather changes like the strides of a fox. Unpredicted snow, fast chilly winds, heavy rainfall, and intense fog can easily block vision, refrain clarity, and craft sticky situations on the road. Now obviously, one can find shelter or a safe spot to wait out the situation, which is probably the safest tip of them all; but not everyone can afford to do the same. People who might be low on time, attending to urgency, or have commuting as a necessary part of their job can put a dent in their pockets if they choose to halt on every time the weather gets bad.
There are several do(s) and don’t(s) for driving safely during winter. Obviously, one can not retain all the tips in a single go, but by applying one practice at a time we can train ourselves to be prepared for anything and everything to ensure our safety. The basic underline of being ready is to prepare for the worst and hope for the best. Find the things we should keep in mind while driving by Minibus Hire Kent.
Depending upon the season, purchase a kit and always place it on your vehicle. Even when you are in a rush, always consider the defrosting time and slippery roads while planning your journey; even if it is from your home to a friend’s or to the supermarket. If you can then purchase a compatible shovel and put it in the trunk.
Winter tires can be costly but they are totally worth the money. Not only do they provide more friction on snow and ice than general car tires, they can also help your wheels on misty winter roads. In case you don’t have winter tires on you, make sure your tire has no cracks or bulges and is retaining the prominent amount of threads. Carry an inflator to always be in check of the recommended tire pressure.
Winters and car batteries don’t go along that well. This demands constant awareness of battery health. You just have to make sure that your battery is healthy enough to support your car. Regardless, always carry a jump starter kit. If you are stuck already and your battery goes off, a lot rises to the stakes. Jump starter kits are not too hard to use and can help you comfortably find shelter.
Visible or UV jackets along with a few thermals and a powerful torch are a must-have. Also keep a warm bottle of water around if you can at all times. First aid kits are pre-installed but check if they lack anything.
Stay informed on the effectiveness of your wiper blades and make sure to stick them off the windshield before parking them. Make sure your lights are working and are clean including the fog lamps. Additionally, make sure that the washer fluid compartment is always filled. You can either make one at home with water and screenwash (just follow the instructions behind) or buy one online.
Avoid puddles if you can, if not then always be extra careful while driving through them. Try to calculate the depth of the puddle or standing water prior. And remember to test your brakes right after making it through the water body.
In case of snow, master to accelerate in the second gear. This reduces tyre rotation and prevents your car from being stuck in the snow.
Driving on ice can result in a longer duration and distance of overall stopping time depending upon the momentum of your car. So always maintain a huge distance from the vehicle in front and break steadily. The rule of thumb is that the ultimate stopping distance can be 12 times more than what it generally is for your speed.
