Driving in Snow
The blog this week is about tips to keep yourself and your car safe in perilous driving conditions. And let’s face it – the conditions we are experiencing across the country at the moment are fraught with hazards. Everyone is trying to save money at the moment, interest rates are rising, fuel bills are rising, food costs are soaring etc so when it comes to owning a car, we need all the help we can get to keep costs down. Read on to find out more:
When did you last check your tyres? We have written many blogs telling you to regularly check the tyre depth using a 20p coin. The minimum tread depth is 3mm – if you are in any doubt take yor car to your local independent garage for inspection. To increase the longevity of your tyre and to keep them performing at their optimum you also need to ensure that your tyre pressures are correct. If in any doubt check your owner’s manual or seek professional advice.
1) If there are extreme weather conditions – ask yourself if it is really necessary to go out in that weather. Check the local travel bulletins not just for your area but also for the route to your destination if you really must travel. Stick to main roads as they are more likely to have been treated.
2) Before setting off, clear off snow piled on the roof of your Volvo or Toyota and the bonnet too, as it can blow onto your windscreen and onto any cars behind you which is very dangerous.
3) Start your Volvo or Toyota avoiding high revs. If road conditions are extremely icy and you drive a manual car, you should move off in a higher gear rather than first gear. You should stay in a higher gear to avoid wheel spinning.
4) Get your speed right when travelling in snow. Don’t drive too fast that you risk losing control, and don’t drive too slowly that you risk losing momentum for getting up a slope or hill. If you are in any way concerned – again we ask you to consider whether the journey is actually necessary.
5) Leave extra room to the vehicle in front of you than you normally would as stopping distances will be increased due to the road conditions. It is advisable to use engine braking more to slow down before using your brakes so by increasing the distance to the car in front you should be able to do this.
6) If you breakdown, you should leave your vehicle preferably from the passenger side and stand away from your car – never Infront of it. Hopefully you have a warm coat and a fully charged phone. Things like a snack and a drink of water or juice to keep your energy levels up whilst waiting for help should also be with you. If you are planning on driving in the snow, then part of the planning is to ensure for every eventuality and to be prepared for a breakdown. It is never advisable to wait inside your car during a breakdown. Happy Safe Motoring Folks!
Here at ACC UK Ltd, Winners of The Motor Trader Independent Garage of The Year 2015, 2019 & 2020, The IGA Big Awards 2022, The Inspire Customer Service Excellence 2016 Award, The Eagle Radio Customer Focus 2017 Business Award, The Workshop Magazine Workshop Manager of the Year 2017 Award, The LiveWire Excellence In Vehicle Servicing 2019 Award and The Aftermarket Excellence Award for Best Website 2019, The Eagle Radio Biz Award – Entrepreneur of the Year 2020 & the SME News Magazine Most Trusted Car Servicing Provider 2020, we pride ourselves on offering an outstanding customer experience for a fraction of the cost of a dealership. Give us a call and let us quote you for your next service or repair on your Volvo or Toyota. We service all areas around Farnborough, Fleet, Aldershot, Farnham, Guildford, Frimley, Camberley, Hook, Sandhurst, Crowthorne, Yateley, Hampshire and Surrey. We offer free collection and drop off services. We also have a fleet of courtesy cars to allow you to get on with your schedule whilst your Volvo or Toyota is with us. Happy Motoring from all at ACC UK Ltd – Independent Volvo & Toyota servicing, repair and MOT specialists based in the heart of Farnborough, Hampshire.
