Winter is upon us, and driving in cold winter conditions can be challenging, even for experienced drivers. Have a look at these safe driving tips to help you remain safe on the roads throughout the season.
Start with a safety check
Have you taken your vehicle for an annual check at Tiger Wheel & Tyre this year? It is vital to know the state of your vehicle so that you can detect any problems before significant damage is caused, or even worse, before you end up in an accident as a result. The Tiger Wheel & Tyre Safety Check includes the checking of your tyres, windscreen, wipers, lights, alarm system, immobiliser and other safety features and devices. Multiply members only pay R 99, plus you will earn up to 40 points – just like that.
Tips for driving in extreme weather conditions:
- Decrease your speed and leave plenty of room to stop. You should allow at least three times more space than usual between you and the vehicle in front of you.
- Brake gently to avoid skidding. If your wheels start to lock up, ease off the brake.
- Turn on your lights to increase your visibility to other motorists.
- Keep your lights and windshield clean.
- Use low gears to keep traction, especially on hills.
- Don’t use cruise control or overdrive on icy roads.
- Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses and infrequently travelled roads, which will freeze first. Even at temperatures above freezing, if the conditions are wet, you might encounter ice in shady areas or on exposed roadways like bridges.
- Don’t assume your vehicle can handle all conditions. Even four-wheel and front-wheel drive vehicles can encounter trouble on winter roads. (Driving tips from www.Arrive.Alive.mobi)
Seriously consider changing your tyres
Spinning out of control on a dewy road and ending up in a ditch is not the best way to discover that your tyres needed a change after all. Take the feedback from your safety check seriously, and change your tyres as per the recommendations you received at your safety check.
Remember:
- Do not answer your phone or make calls while driving, to avoid being distracted.
- Always drive within the speed limit.
- Avoid driving after dark, if possible.
- Do not drink and drive
- Don’t forget to put on your safety belt. The South African law requires each passenger being transported in a motor vehicle to make use of the seatbelts and strap themselves in. It is the driver’s responsibility to make sure all passengers are strapped in mains strapped in while travelling. It is a criminal offence for an adult to allow a child younger than 14 years to travel unrestrained in a vehicle equipped with seatbelts or a car safety seat.
Sources
https://www.arrivealive.mobi/driving-in-winter-driving-on-snow-and-icehttps://www.consumerreports.org/car-maintenance/winter-car-care-tips-frigid-weather/https://www.shell.co.za/motorists/motoring-tips-and-advice/10-safety-tips.html
