As Chris Rea sang, driving home for Christmas is a journey full of anticipation and excitement as you get ready for a break with no work, lots of food and, most importantly, seeing family.
So you got everything sorted right? You have bought and wrapped all the presents, made your famous stuffing, packed your cosy onesie and made your Christmas playlist for the drive, but are you actually fully prepared to make your trip?
Checking your car is ready for a long drive is one of the most overlooked tasks by young people but not doing it can completely ruin that once-a-year journey you have been looking forward to so much.
We get that checking your car isn’t the most exciting job to get your Christmas break started with, plus most of us have no idea what half of the warning lights on our dashboard actually mean, but don’t let that put you off! Some of the checks you can do are really easy and may save you a huge heap of trouble and time.
Winter driving can be challenging due to slippery road conditions, reduced visibility, and extreme cold. Not everyone may be as prepared for winter driving so be extra cautious and anticipate the actions of other drivers.
“In preparation for winter, keeping a kit of essential items like a torch and warm clothes, in your vehicle, can be vital in case you and your passengers become stranded. Freezing conditions bring so many hazards such as snow and ice, please take every possible step to understand your journey in advance and allow extra time when travelling.”
Dale Hipkiss, National Network Manager at National Highways
National Highways have some easy safety tips to help you be prepared and have a safe T.R.I.P. this winter.
Top-up – Fill up fuel, check your oil and screen-wash, ensure you’re charged
Over 33% of breakdowns are caused by vehicles losing power, having engine issues, or running out of fuel. Many problems can be avoided if you check and top up your vehicle’s fluid levels on a regular basis and before a long journey.
Before your trip fill up your fuel and check that you have a full charge as winter weather can lead to longer commutes and the possibility of getting stuck in traffic.
Check you have enough screen wash before you set off. Use a washer fluid that’s suitable for freezing temperatures.
Keep windows and lights clean. Winter often brings wet and icy conditions, and dirt and salt can quickly build up.
Regular maintenance is essential winter to ensure your vehicle is operating correctly and is safe to drive.
Rest – Take a break, every 2 hours
To enjoy a comfortable road trip this winter, plan take a break for at least 15 minutes every two hours.
The shorter days and the challenging conditions of winter driving makes planning a rest stop essential, especially during long journeys. Having a rest while driving is not only important for your safety but also contributes to a more enjoyable and stress-free travel experience.
Prioritise rest and well-being to ensure you’re alert and prepared for any challenges that winter might bring on the road.
If you are disabled driver or passenger you can use this guide to find rest stops that best suit your needs
Inspect – your lights, brakes, tyre tread and pressure
Maintaining lights and well-functioning tyres is crucial for safe driving during the winter and consider switching to winter tyres for better traction.
Check tyre pressures regularly
In winter tyre pressures can decrease. Check your tyre pressures, proper inflation helps with traction and handling and therefore your safety on the road.
Inspect tread depth
Tread depth is essential for maintaining traction on wet and slippery roads. The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm but most tyre and safety experts recommend a 3mm minimum.
Ensure your lights are all working
Headlights, tail lights, or brake lights not working will make it harder for you to see and be seen by others in the dark, rain and fog.
Braking
Test the brakes to make sure they are functioning properly. Avoid sudden braking and increase your distance from the car in front.
Prepare – for the weather and road conditions
Be prepared for winter weather, conditions can vary considerably and sometimes change at short notice. Check the weather forecast before your trip to determine if driving conditions will be safe. If conditions are severe, consider postponing your trip if possible.
If you’re heading out on two wheels in the dark, make sure you’re visible. Reflective items of clothing are best but light colours will also help others to see you.
Reduce your speed and increase your following distance to give yourself more time to react to changing road conditions. Keep a safe distance from snowploughs and gritters.
Remove snow and ice from all windows, mirrors, lights, and the roof of your vehicle for better visibility and to prevent flying debris.
Be cautious of black ice, especially on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas.
Pack a winter emergency kit with essentials like extra warm clothing, non-perishable food, water, a flashlight and a shovel.
Find out more here.
