Driving in snow and ice can be stressful if you aren’t prepared.
Navigate the colder months with confidence by prepping your car for travel and learning what to do when driving on snowy and icy roads.
Before Driving in Snow and Ice
If you are planning on driving in the snow or ice, you should set aside extra time so that you can drive as slowly as needed.
Check the weather forecast before driving – it may be safer to wait and drive once the bad weather has subsided.
Plan your route in advance and carry out some vital winter car checks before you set off, including ensuring the battery is fully charged and the heating system is working as expected.
A few vital checks you can carry out before driving in snow and ice include:
- Topping up screen wash levels
- Checking your windows, mirrors and lights are clear of snow
- Having your battery checked
- Ensuring your windscreen is defrosted
These checks can help you maintain visibility and keep your windscreen wipers working when you need them most.
You could even book a Winter Health Check if you want to ensure your vehicle is ready to take on the colder months.
You may also want to switch to winter tyres, which offer more grip in snowy and icy weather conditions due to their deeper treads.
In any case, remember that cold weather can lower tyre pressure, so you should check and adjust this when necessary.
Stick to main roads you’re familiar with, if possible, as these are more likely to have been cleared or gritted.
Make sure that your windscreen is properly defrosted, and your lights are working.
Dress warmly in sensible footwear and pack an emergency kit to keep in the car in case you get stuck.
It can be easy to forget to keep sunglasses in the car, too, but the sun can be bright even in winter and make it difficult to see oncoming traffic.
If you’re travelling to meet someone, it can be a good idea to let them know when you’re setting off and expected to arrive.
How to Demist Your Windscreen
You should defrost and demist your car windscreen before driving in snow and ice.
Check that your windscreen wipers aren't frozen before starting the engine.
If your windscreen is icy, then you may want to scrape it clear before proceeding.
You can then turn on the windscreen and rear window heaters as well as the air-con of ypur car has them.
Using a soft brush, you can clear any additional snow that is leftover.
You should only set off once your windscreen, rear screen, door mirrors and side windows are completely clear of snow and ice.
Avoid using a cloth to wipe the inside of the windscreen, as this will leave marks behind.
Keep de-icer handy in case you need it - and remember never use boiling water to defrost your windows!
How to Drive in Snow Safely
Drive slowly in snow to maintain greater control of your vehicle.
You should leave adequate room between your vehicle and the one in front of you to give you more time to stop safely on snowy roads. This is especially important when preparing to drive uphill, so that you can maintain a constant speed without needing to change gear. Stopping distances can be up to 10 times longer when driving on snowy and icy roads, and tyre grip will be significantly reduced.
You should use a low gear when going downhill and try not to brake unless you have to.
Use dipped headlights when driving in heavy snow to ensure you can see the vehicle in front of you – and to let the cars behind you know where you are.
To reduce wheelspin, always start in second gear and gently ease off the clutch.
Driving in a higher gear can provide more torque and traction, helping your tyres grip packed ice.
When driving uphill, wait until it’s clear to drive up without having to stop.
Keep your speed constant and avoid gear changes.
If you can’t wait for it to clear, make sure you give other drivers plenty of space.
If your car has anti-lock brakes, you should apply steady pressure on the brakes – if your car doesn’t have ABS, brake gently to avoid wheel lock.
You may want to check the radio from time to time for traffic updates.
How to Drive on Ice Safely
If the roads are icy, you should only drive if it’s absolutely necessary.
Drive slowly and in as high a gear as possible, taking particular care around bends.
You should drive with caution – especially in low temperatures and on seemingly wet road surfaces, as this can be an indication that black ice is present.
Ease off the accelerator to decelerate gently, letting the vehicle slow down naturally.
Avoid any sudden movements or sharp steering adjustments.
If you do begin to skid, steer gently into the direction of the skid to help regain control.
How to Spot (and Drive on) Black Ice
Black ice is smooth and glossy and can be difficult for drivers to see – it is most common early in the morning or at night when temperatures are low. It's often found in shaded areas that the sun doesn’t directly reach, as well as high-traffic areas, so take extra care when driving in these places.
If you do drive over black ice, keep the steering wheel straight and maintain your speed without hitting the brakes.
