Winter Driving

Published Date: 25th Jan 2023

Winter driving can be a tricky and dangerous experience, with icy roads, snowfall, high winds, and freezing temperatures. It is important to take extra care when behind the wheel during winter weather in order to avoid facing hefty fines or worse.

Drivers should ensure that all windows are demisted before setting off, as failing to do so could result in a £60 fine as well as three points on your licence. Winter breakdown kits should include an ice scraper to help keep the windscreen clear of snow and ice. Moreover, drivers should also make sure their tyres have optimal tread depth and are not cracked or damaged; having lower tread on your tyres is a more serious issue in the winter because it becomes even more challenging to grip to the road during snow and ice, whilst also increasing breaking distances. Failing to adhere to these safety standards can lead to fines of up to £10,000 per tyre!

It’s also important for drivers be conscious of any snow present on their vehicle when driving. If caught with snow still present on your car whilst driving, then you could face a fine of up to £2,500 due to potential danger caused by flying debris hitting other road users or blocking their views. Similarly clearing snow from all number plates and external lights is also essential for safety reasons as well as avoiding fines of up to £1,000 for illegal behaviour such as obscuring number plates or reducing visibility due to blocked lights.

Furthermore, visibility can be severely diminished when driving in poor weather conditions such as heavy rain or foggy conditions. Drivers must make sure that they remove any obstructions on their windows before getting behind the wheel in order not only increase visibility but also avoid another £1,000 fine. Lastly, fog lights should only be used when it is actually foggy out – using them while its only raining or snowing could lead you with a fine of up £30 risky driving behaviour.

By following these tips and taking extra caution while driving during wintertime, you can stay safe without fear of hefty fines! The RAC has some excellent advice and guides for anyone wanting further guidance about how best prepare for winter driving conditions.

 

Be Prepared

 

Check your tyre depth : Winter tyres should have a minimum tread depth of 6mm, which is essential for optimum grip and stopping power in wet and icy conditions. Failing to meet this standard could result in hefty fines up to £10,000 per tyre, as well as increasing the risk of danger due to less control over the vehicle when driving. Checking tyre depth should be done at least every month before setting off, and more regularly during winter months when snow and ice are more frequent.

Winter Tyres: Winter tyres are specifically designed to help improve traction on slippery surfaces with deeper grooves which help grip better in wet and icy conditions. Winter tyres are also made with a softer rubber compound which helps maintain flexibility in sub-zero temperatures, enabling them to increase road contact and reduce braking distances. Drivers should consider switching to winter tyres during cold spells; however, they need to ensure that their tread depths comply with regulations even after changing their tyres.

Winter breakdown Kit: Winter weather can be unpredictable so it’s important to always carry a winter breakdown kit with you in case of emergencies. This kit should include items such as warm clothes or blankets to keep you warm if stranded outside for long periods of time, some food for energy, water for hydration, an ice scraper for de-icing car windows quickly and easily, plus any other items that may offer comfort or safety such as a first aid kit or torchlight.

Winter driving can be a challenge and requires extra preparation to ensure safety. From checking your tyre depth, investing in winter tyres or carrying a Winter breakdown Kit – these steps are essential for staying safe on the roads during cold weather spells. By following all of these tips, you’ll keep yourself out of harm's way and also avoid hefty fines due to illegal behaviour while driving in winter conditions. So don't forget: check your tyre depths, invest in Winter Tyres and put together an emergency Winter Breakdown Kit before setting off!

 

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