Bad weather conditions during winter increases the risk of car accidents in the UK. Although there are a number of services available to drivers in the UK detailing weather conditions and road conditions, the number of accidents that occur during winter remains high. There are four major problems while driving in the UK in winter, which most drivers are not aware of. The first problem is that most vehicle owners and drivers do not prepare their cars for winter driving. Just changing to winter or snow tyres does not necessarily imply that the car is ready for winter. All the lights, and especially the fog lights and brake lights, should be checked daily to ensure that they work properly. Next, the brakes should be in perfect working condition and anti-freeze should be topped up. Windshield wipers should be working properly and washer liquid should also be topped up.

Most UK drivers only carry a scraper in their cars during winter, which is not enough. A tow rope, blankets, torch, some high energy food, a bottle of water, cash and the emergency services telephone number are some of the essentials that should be carried during winter driving. Make sure the car’s tyre pressure is adjusted for winter driving.

Winter weather in the UK is very unpredictable, and no matter what the weather forecast may be, be prepared for the worst. Country roads and back lanes are not gritted and there is bound be ice and snow on them. So slowing down, and turning fog lights on if visibility drops to below 100 yards are necessary for one’s own safety. Most winter car accidents occur due to poor visibility and drivers not taking the necessary precautions. Cars skidding out of control on icy roads and hitting other vehicles (or the curb sides) are common. Keeping the radio on a local station helps, as police and the met department keep broadcasting road, traffic and weather conditions – especially if the weather conditions are fast deteriorating.

Coping with snow, ice, fog, hail and rain during winter is something drivers must know how to handle. Speeding and bad or faulty braking systems are two major causes of winter accidents. Fog in the morning and haze in the evening are quite common during winters in the UK. Only the major roads and highways are cleared, gritted and constantly patrolled by police during winter. But maintaining a safe distance between vehicles and adjusting speed is something that drivers have to do on their own initiative. If planning a long journey, listening to weather forecasts or checking the weather and road conditions on the UK highway’s website is advised. Cruising along in fine weather and being suddenly hit by a shower or fog is common, so a driver must be alert at all times.

The UK winter weather can change very fast, especially along costal and riverside roads. Test brakes often, as water can get into the brake drums and reduce the braking capability of a vehicle. If caught in a sudden downpour and the car is splashed with a lot of water, it would be a good idea to drive for a while with the handbrake applied slightly. This will help the brake shoes to dry out. Avoid sudden braking and swerving at all costs. Remember if the steering is turned either way when brakes are applied the front tyres are going to be in a different direction as compared to the rear tyres, and this will make the movement of the car unpredictable.