"Winter Tyres" can increase your chances of a safe journey.
In addition to looking at the levels of anti-freeze, and restocking de-icer, motor vehicle users need to think about fitting winter tyres on their vehicles as the cold weather commences. So advises Aviva Health the UK’s largest insurer.
These tyres do not prevent all accidents, but the better grip they provide increases the likelihood of a safe journey.
Following are some top tips for driving during winter, prepare before your journey, and take additional care during it.
Prior to commencing:
Clean the windscreen carefully using an especially designed windscreen scraper or de-icer, so as to remove any ice from the vehicle. Remember to clean all windows not just the windscreen.
Check and top up as required the levels of anti-freeze and de-icing agent in the screen washers.
Make sure you have sufficient fuel for the trip, in stop/start and heavy traffic you will use more fuel.
Carry your mobile phone, and ensure that the battery is fully charged.
Take suitable tools and accessories in case of an emergency. You should consider carrying a tow rope, jump leads, a torch, a First Aid Kit, a warning triangle, and a shovel in case you are stuck in the snow.
Other useful items will be warm and waterproof clothing, sturdy shoes, a spare blanket or emergency blanket, and some food and water, just in case.
If the weather is really bad, don't drive unless it is absolutely necessary. And, if you do have to make a trip, let someone know of your planned route and expected time of arrival.
During your journey:
Try to stay on main roads, these will most certainly have been gritted and salted.
Use headlights in snow, and fog lights in poor visibility, and allow extra distance between your vehicle and the one in front, so that you have more time braking.
Aviva is a leading provider of life and pension products in Europe (including the UK), and also has substantial positions in other markets around the world. Based on gross worldwide premiums at 31 December 2009, it is the world’s sixth largest insurance group .