Top tips for driving safely driving as Met Eireann warns of freezing temperatures and possible snow

With many of us focused on the festivities associated with the colder months, winter is also the most difficult season to drive in. The drastic change in weather can make even the most routine drive more dangerous.  

Car insurance experts Chill have put together the winter driving tips ahead of hitting the road this December.

Top driving tips this winter:

Prepare before each journey
The roads become more dangerous during the winter months, making accidents more common. Before every journey, we advise checking the news and weather forecast before setting off on big journeys. We recommend using your boot as a storage space for items you may need in an emergency or if your car were to break down on a cold winter’s night. Some important items to consider are a car blanket, spare wheel and a first aid kit. Make sure to check to see if you have enough fuel in the tank before any big journey, which will help if you encounter any delays due to bad weather. 
We would also advise packing an emergency kit in case you find yourself in trouble. Your kit should include a pair of jump leads, a torch, spare fuses, an ice scraper, a de-icer and some dispersant spray, as well as bottles of water, snacks, a pair of gloves, a scarf and a warm blanket. 

Ensure your car is visible in poor winter weather
There is more chance of poor visibility during the winter months due to shorter days and more chance of rain, sleet and snow. Before setting off on every journey check your lights are working correctly. It is vital that you use headlights when visibility is seriously reduced. It’s important to note that when using fog lights remember to turn them off when visibility improves so you don't distract other drivers.

Choosing the right winter tyres
Having the correct tread depth and tyre pressure is vital during colder temperatures. Winter tyres are designed to help prevent ice or backed snow from building up around the tyre in bad weather conditions. Tyres with the correct tread are not only a legal requirement but they improve steering and the speed at which the vehicle stops. Cooler air increases the rate at which your tyre pressure deflates, so be sure to check this regularly and pump it up when necessary. If your tyres are becoming worn, a new set for the winter months is advised. 

Perform a vehicle check before each journey
Before you set off on any long-distance trips, it's important to check your vehicle to make sure everything is in order. During the winter, the last thing you need is to have a breakdown from something that could’ve been easily avoided. We recommended you make a checklist to ensure the functionality of your car’s lights, brakes, tyres, window wipers and heating system.

Keep your distance
Keep your distance between the vehicles in front of you at all times. It takes longer for a car to stop in the winter, so make sure to allow time for this. Avoid harsh braking as there may be frost on the roads or heavy rainfall, which can affect your vehicle's ability to slow down.

Be aware of black ice
One of winter’s biggest dangers to drivers is black ice, mainly because it is so hard to spot. It is recommended that you look out for shaded areas on the roads as this is a common place for black ice.