Driving your vehicle in icy conditions

For some of us, driving in the snow and ice is a skill that we’ve had to learn first hand on the road. If you were lucky enough to experience icy conditions during your lessons, it may be less scary when you experience it as a passed driver. But for the majority that faced it with no experience, there are definitely some we wish we knew. One of the best advice that can be given is to simply try and avoid driving in icy conditions, but as we know this is not always possible, here is some advice when it is necessary.

Slow and steady

The vast majority of accidents that happen in icy conditions occur when drivers are driving at high speeds and struggle to control their vehicle. The best thing to do before you even start driving is to set out time ahead of the journey, leaving a few minutes before allow time to drive slowly. Even if skidding does occur, lower speeds that are less likely to damage and keep you and other drivers safe.

Keep a good stopping distance

In normal conditions being too close to the car in front can have very dangerous consequences and in the ice this risk only increases. We all know that in usual conditions we should leave a 2 car gap from the driver in front, but in icy conditions this gap should be between 10-20 cars. A crash or dramatic braking much further up the road can have a much bigger knock on effect in icy conditions. This advice especially applies in uphill areas. If a car begins to slide back down it means that your vehicle will not be taking any damage and you stay safe.

Higher gears

In icy conditions, higher gears can be key, especially pulling away in higher gears. This puts less power directly to the wheel therefore avoids overspin.

Good tyre health

Some drivers often experience more difficulty driving in the winter weather than those that have the exact same car! This can be due to the type of tyre you have installed. Those with winter tyres may find that driving in these conditions is a much easier task, to ensure that you have the right tyre for your vehicle in different weather conditions, we are always happy to help.