A Brief Guide to Driving Safely This Winter: What to Know

Many drivers grow apprehensive when it comes to driving in wintry conditions, and it’s not hard to see why. With poor visibility, an increased chance of slips and the sinister presence of black ice, the colder months bring an abundance of hazards to the roads. However, if you act responsibly and implement important safety measures, you can substantially reduce the risk of accidents. Read on to learn more about driving safely this winter.



Get preparing early

Before setting off on car journeys, it’s sensible to prepare thoroughly. Make sure your antifreeze is topped up sufficiently and that your brake fluid is at the correct level. Remember, you won’t be getting very far if your windscreen wipers are iced over or covered in snow - you’ll need to sort these out before setting off. It’s worth adding regular screen cleans to your routine as salt, grit, water marks, and dirty snow can all leave your vision obscured in no time. Having essentials to hand in case of an emergency is also a smart move - these could include a torch, first aid kit, jump leads, blankets, bottled water and a phone power bank.

Drive with caution

Remember, it’s extremely easy to lose control of your car on icy roads, and that puts everyone from drivers to pedestrians in danger. You should take it slow and always keep a good distance from the car in front so you don’t run the risk of driving into them. During times of fog, snow and poor visibility, you should also ensure your lights are on so your fellow drivers can see your position on the road. While you should keep your speed down, you should drive in as high a gear as possible to give you better control in difficult conditions. Instead of overworking your brakes, you should use less acceleration. Always keep in mind that you shouldn’t travel unless absolutely essential in adverse weather conditions - a car journey is not worth your life.

Ensure road gritting has been carried out

Gritting will essentially prevent accidents, injuries, and property damage. Grit is essentially rock salt which lowers the freezing point of the moisture on the road which stops ice from forming and encourages existing frost and ice to melt. Road gritting works best when traffic drives over the gritting to break it down and spread it across the road.

At GMCB Ltd, our gritting contractors will keep your roads, businesses and premises clear throughout the winter. As road gritting experts we provide both scheduled and emergency solutions at affordable prices in Edinburgh - you can rely on us for your commercial gritting requirements. Get in touch now to find out more about our services.