The general approach is that „once you learn how to drive, you know how to drive”(A.Rogowski). This isn’t however necessarily the case – especially when we take into account the fact that driving a motorized vehicle takes place in different weather conditions. These in turn affect the driving capabilities of both the driver and vehicle as such.
While driving during the winter season, one has to be especially vigilant for unexpected situations and obstacles. The following text contains within it a number of tips which we hope the site visitor will find useful:
- Before you even start thinking of driving during the winter season - get your vehicle winter-ready with a maintenance check. This is money well spent, as you don’t want to find yourself in a situation where you are stuck in the middle of nowhere during winter. Thus be prepared for the worst – always !
- Check vehicle systems and components prior to the voyage. So especially check the battery, coolant, oil and breaks.
- Be sure you filled your tank. You don’t want to be confronted with unexpected surprises.
- Winter tires. These are highly recommended. Indeed, in most countries this is even mandatory. Another solution could also be the use of tire chains, though this remedy is recommended in sever weather conditions.
- Have a emergency kit always on board !
- Consider defrost mechanism when the car is stationary.
- If your vehicle is covered with snow, make sure that prior to the voyage you clean the windows and mirrors, so that your view isn’t corrupted in any way.
- When you are ready to drive out into a winter environment – TAKE IT SLOW ! Most car accidents during the winter period result from the fact that drivers don not adapt the vehicle speed to the realities of the surrounding environment. It is often a question of life and death, so don’t be clouded by the illusory idea that you will win time driving faster. Its just not worth the risk. Drive reasonably.
- Take into account that during the winter season it gets darker not only earlier than usual, but also in a more rapid fashion. Hence adapt your driving style to the changing reality. Stay vigilant !
- Avoid rapid halts. Anticipate your stop prior to the destined location.
- Beware of snow compositions on the road. Often, when it snow severely, the various snow layers form road obstacles – especially by the road sides. Be aware of this and careful.
- Watch out for pedestrians – limited movement conditions do not only apply to vehicles, but also people. So take this into account and be tolerant here as well.
