The RAC has issued advice to motorists this week as snow and ice continue to sweep the UK. Wintry conditions can make driving difficult and even lead to accidents.
It is important to be prepared before embarking on a journey in the snow incase the worst was to happen. Motorists are advised to check their route before they travel and allow more time for their journey in these conditions. If snow has already fallen, you need to clear all windows, mirros, lights and car roof before setting off.
The RAC has also urged drivers to put a list of essential items in their cars. They said: “Be prepared for every eventuality by ensuring that your car is equipped.”
To be prepared, the RAC say you should have 16 items. These include a demisting pad, a wind-up torch, a hi-vis vest to make you visable if you breakdown and a blanket to keep you warm.
They recommend also having some food and drink on hand as well as screenwash, de-icer, ice scraper, shovel and a warning triangle.
Pack a phone charger and a map in case you run out of battery or signal. You may also need a first aid kit, some jump leads and a square of carpet you can use to put under your wheels should you get stuck in the snow.
The RAC added: “The most important thing to take with you before driving in snow is a charged mobile phone with the phone number of your breakdown provider stored in it so you can always call for help.”
16 items you need in your car
Demisting padWind-up torchHi-vis vestBlanketFood and drinkScreenwashDe-icerIce scraperShovelWarning trianglePhone chargerMapFirst aid kitJump leadsSquare of carpetMobile phone
When driving in the snow, the experts say you need to accelerate gently, using low revs and change up to high gears as quickly as possible. Moving off in second gear can help reduce wheel slip.
Some cars have a winter mode, which can help do this. Ensure you maintain safe stopping distances between you and the car in front, with as much as 10 times the normal recommended gap.
Use a low gear for going downhill and try to avoid braking unless necessary. When approaching a bend, brake before turning the steering wheel.
They advised: “If your car does lose grip try not to panic; the key thing is to take your foot off the accelerator and make sure that your wheels are pointing in the direction you want to go in.
“If you do encounter a skid, steer gently into it – for example, if the rear of the car is sliding to the right, steer to the right. Do not take your hands off the steering wheel or stamp your foot on the brakes.”
