Are You At Risk This Winter?

Motorists are failing to adequately prepare their car for winter, research by Manheim Auctions has revealed. Despite last winter being one of the coldest in 50 years and the Met Office predicting more of the same for the coming months, a quarter of drivers are taking to the roads without doing anything to prepare their car for wintery conditions; and in doing so they risk themselves, their passengers, other road users and pedestrians.

The findings also revealed that 60% of motorists only do the very basics to prepare; topping up the screen wash with anti-freeze, buying de-icer and carrying an ice scraper.

“With winter fast approaching it’s so important for motorists to prepare their car ahead of the bad weather. We all need to take extra precautions when driving in icy, wintery conditions and at the very least, all drivers should ensure they have de-icer, an ice scraper and screen wash with anti-freeze,” explained Craig Mailey, Marketing Director, Manheim Auctions.

“We should be used to the cold weather by now but you still see some motorists driving without fully clearing either their windscreen or their rear screen and it’s dangerous! As a nation we don’t cope with winter driving very well. In the US and Europe for example, winter tyres and snow chains are the norm.”

Manheim Auctions Top 10 Guide to Preparing for Winter Motoring

1. Check the tread depth and pressure on your tyres as well as oil and water levels.
2. Make sure your windscreen and rear screen wipers are working properly.
3. Stock up on de-icer, top up your screen wash and buy an ice scraper. Keep your de-icer in the car in case you need it for the journey home as well as a bottle of water to top up your screen wash.
4. Check the weather forecast ahead of travelling and make sure you allow extra time for your journey.
5. Plan your route properly, taking into account the weather conditions. Stick to the main roads – avoid short cuts through country lanes or steep hills as they are less likely to have been gritted.
6. Take the time to clear your windscreen, rear screen and windows fully before you set off. Don’t forget to clear snow from the car roof. As it melts it will fall off your car and could obscure your view of the road or the car behind.
7. Don’t use hot water to clear the ice! It could crack your windscreen, rear screen or windows.
8. If the weather is really bad, carry warm clothing, a shovel and a torch – just in case!
9. Keep a bottle of water and a snack in the car. You’ll need them if you get stuck in the snow.
10. If the weather produces hazardous driving conditions, don’t drive unless you absolutely have to.