Plan ahead -check the weather forecast and traffic updates before you set off to make sure the roads are safe and plan routes which favour main roads as they are more likely to be gritted and cleared of snow and ice first.
Perform a vehicle check- ensure you have plenty of fuel or - if you drive an electric car - that it's fully charged. It’s advisable to also check your vehicles oil level, tyres, wiper blades, lights and indicators are all in working order.
Clean all lights and windows– do this before every journey to give you the best visibility.
Kit out your vehicle – as well as an ice scraper and de-icer, carry a mobile phone with fully charged battery and an in-car charger, torch, first-aid kit, blanket etc.
Take it slow -reduce speed when visibility is poor, or if the road is wet or icy, as it will take you longer to react to hazards.
Maintain a safe gap -you should always follow the four second rule to keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.
Stay vigilant -remember it's not always what you do on the road, it can be what other road users do as well. Be aware that pedestrians, cyclists, bikers are harder to spot in adverse weather conditions, so drive slowly and cautiously.
Stay in control - avoid harsh braking and acceleration and carry out manoeuvres very slowly and with extra care.
Use lights – It is illegal to drive at night without functioning front and rear lights. Please ensure you check they’re all in full working order and put your lights on when visibility is reduced on dark days. Use front and rear fog lights in dense fog.
Be well-rested: Take breaks every two hours, especially if you're driving long distances.
Don't drink and drive: Drink driving is a serious issue at any time of the year, but it’s magnified at Christmas. As our social calendars fill up, and we celebrate the season with friends and work colleagues it is vital you remember that you can still be over the limit the morning after drinking.If you need to think about whether you’re in a fit state to drive, the chances are you’re probably not.
