Winter in the UK brings more than just festive cheer; it brings some of the most challenging driving conditions of the year. With temperatures dropping and the arrival of snow, ice, and heavy rain, the risk of accidents increases significantly.
At Silvester Crash Repair, we see a sharp rise in “preventable” collisions during these months. To help keep you safe on the roads this winter, we’ve put together a guide on how to adjust your driving and protect your vehicle.
The Golden Rule: Increase Your Distance
The most critical change you can make when driving on snow or ice is to increase your following distance.
The 10-Times Rule
On icy roads, your braking distance can be up to ten times longer than on dry tarmac. If you usually keep a 2-second gap, extend it to 20 seconds.
Anticipate the Road
Look much further ahead than usual. By spotting a hazard early, you can slow down using your engine braking (shifting down gears) rather than slamming on the brakes, which can lead to a skid.
Stay Well Back
Keeping a large gap doesn’t just give you more time to stop; it also protects your windscreen and paintwork from the salt, grit, and slush kicked up by the vehicle in front.
Master the “Smooth” Technique
Sudden movements are the enemy of grip. When the surface is slippery, every input to the car should be as gentle as possible.
Gentle Acceleration
Pull away in second gear if necessary to avoid wheel spin.
Soft Steering
Avoid jerky movements of the steering wheel. If the car starts to slide, steer gently into the skid and avoid the urge to stomp on the brakes.
Constant Speed
Try to maintain a steady, slow speed. Gaining momentum is difficult on ice, but losing control of it is very easy.
Navigating the “Pothole Season”
Winter is notoriously tough on road surfaces. The “freeze-thaw” cycle – where water enters cracks in the road, freezes and expands, and then thaws creates the deep potholes we all dread.
Avoid Standing Water
Puddles often hide deep potholes. If it’s safe to do so, drive around them. If you must go through, do it slowly.
Don’t Brake In the Hole
If you realise you can’t avoid a pothole, try to do your braking before you reach it. Taking your foot off the brake just as you hit the hole allows the wheel to roll through it more freely, reducing the impact on your suspension and alignment.
Check for Damage
If you hit a significant pothole, listen for new noises or feel for vibrations in the steering wheel. Potholes are a leading cause of misaligned wheels and cracked alloys.
Quick Winter Vehicle Checklist
Before you set off, ensure your vehicle is “winter-ready”:
Clear All Snow
Don’t just clear a “porthole” on the windscreen. Clear the entire roof and bonnet so snow doesn’t slide down and block your vision (or the driver’s behind you).
Check Your Tyres
Ensure you have plenty of tread (at least 3mm is recommended for winter) and that your pressures are correct.
Lights and Washers
Keep your lights clean and make sure your screen wash is topped up with a winter-mix concentrate that won’t freeze.
We’re Here if You Need Us
Even the most careful drivers can find themselves in a difficult spot during a Surrey winter. Whether it’s a minor slide into a kerb or a more significant collision, Silvester Crash Repair is here to get you back on the road.
If the winter weather has left your vehicle with a scuff, dent, or structural damage, contact us today for an expert assessment.
Tel: 01483 237001
Email: shop@silvestercrashrepair.uk
OPENING HOURS
Mon-Fri: 08:00 – 17:00
Sat: By appointment only
