Winter Driving

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I thought you might like to know that a few years back, I saw no less than a dozen accidents from the beginning of December to Christmas. My thoughts are that it has less to do with the dark nights and more to do with the fact that people begin to go out for the obligatory work's do. Whilst they wouldn't usually drink in the day, suddenly a whole city of workers are going out for a celebration lunch.

OK. sorry to sound like a wet blanket, but it does stay in your system until after you drive home in the evening and with more and more people becoming het up, trying to finish their Christmas shopping, the roads become chaotic with numerous accidents just literally waiting to happen.

Couple this with the weather conditions expected this time of year and it never ceases to amaze me that there are not even more road related incidents.

Anyway, here are some tips -

1. A two second gap is required between you and the vehicle in front ( that's in good conditions with you anticipating well ). In the rain, this distance will at least double and in ice or snow it can increase up to ten times ( if not more ). If you're not sure about the two second rule, then look it up in the Highway Code. You can download a free copy from the Internet.

2. Remember that some people's reactions will probably be impaired for the reason already mentioned. This relates to pedestrians too! Expect them to be in a hurry as well as not having the correct clothing to be seen on a dark night.

3. Make sure you're reading the road well ahead and scanning and that means moving your eyes and head as you drive to cover the kerbs and pathways as well as the road ahead and the mirrors!
Do a running commentary to practice this skill. It makes you think further ahead. A driving instructor should be able to help you with this.

4. When driving in snow, generally, a higher gear is best. It will help prevent wheel spin.

5. If you have been driving in fog, remember it is illegal to have your fog lights switched on when visibility is more that 100 metres.

There...just a taster really - but I hope you've learned at least something from it - remember, learning to drive is an ongoing process and there is no such thing as an expert ( in my opinion ). So, no matter how experienced you are - take care out there.
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