As the winter weather sets in harder each day, with tomorrow being colder than today, it’s always a good idea to get ahead of what to expect on the roads so that you can prepare sufficiently. Obviously, as the cold sets in, it begins to affect our roads with incredible effect, which makes driving on them a lot harder than your normal every-day drive.
When these effects start to take place on our roads, it’s a common mistake for 4×4 owners to think they’re completely safe, since 4x4s are of course built to tackle tougher terrain. While it’s true that 4x4s can take on a number of different climates, they will still struggle in icy weather.
Before you set off
One of the best ways to tackle roads affected by ice is to set off earlier than usual. It may be obvious, but by setting off early you’ll allow yourself more time to get where you need to be. Other motorists will be driving slowly, and overtaking may not be an option, so by setting off early you will ensure you’re not late while being safe on the road.
If it’s been snowing then your first task, before you set off, should be to clear it off from your vehicle – even if it’s on the roof. Snow on the roofs of cars has been known to slide down onto the windscreen when the vehicle brakes, and that would be the last thing you need.
Driving on Ice
Drivers everywhere have differences, but the one thing every driver can agree on is that ice is the bane of their lives. Unlike snow, ice is often invisible which means you have to guess where it is on the road. However, there are some tells you can follow:
- If it looks like water, it’s probably ice.
- If you’re travelling a road you know well, think where water normally collects.
- If the steering becomes lighter, you’re most likely driving on ice.
- Shadowed areas are the last parts of the road to be thawed by the sun, so watch out for them.
- If that swishing sound of your tyres on a wet road goes quiet, you’re most likely driving on ice.
Ice is never fun, especially when you need to use the roads – don’t panic though, this was just part one of how you can safely drive on winter roads.
Here at CWS, we’re 4×4 experts, providing a range of services to keep them in tip-top condition – from 4×4 salvage to spare parts, we have it all. For more information, you can contact us on 01458 834930 and speak to one of our professional team today.