Have a question? Call us on 0800 1979 345
Have a question? Call us on 0800 1979 345
This article was published on October 26th, 2021
Although it may seem like summer was over in a flash, winter is just around the corner and with winter comes changes in the weather including heavy rain, snow and ice. This means it is more important than ever to ensure your car is properly equipped. Below are 10 ways to prepare your car to avoid a winter car accident.
This may sound like an obvious one, however, it is incredibly important. If you are heading out in winter make sure that your fuel tank is always at least three-quarters full. Various aspects will mean your car will burn more fuel when it’s colder, using your cars heater and window defrosters will take up more fuel. As well as this, cars tend to use more fuel in start/stop traffic conditions which are more likely to occur in the winter months.
Checking your tyres is arguably one of the most important tasks before any journey and having good tyres is essential particularly when driving through the elements. You should ensure that there are no cracks or splits in your tyres and get them changed immediately if there are. Legally the minimum tread depth for your tyres is 1.6mm, however, as the weather gets colder you should ensure that the tread depth of your tyres is 3mm to ensure better control and grip.
As the winter months creep in your car engine has to work harder and they are more likely to die. Therefore, it is particularly important to check your car battery regularly and check that the terminals are not corroded.
During the winter months, there are fewer daylight hours and you will rely on your headlights more. Having good headlights will benefit you during the day and at night in Winter because the weather often leads to reduced visibility. You can check your headlights by switching your car’s engine on and leaving the handbrake on, then turn the lights on and walk round to check them.
Winter will inevitably bring bad weather such as heavy rain, snow and ice, therefore one way to make sure that you have optimum visibility when you’re driving is to make sure that your wiper blades are working properly. It is advised that you should replace them every 6-12 months. However, some common signs that indicate that you may need to replace them sooner include streaking, skipping or squeaking.
Rain, snow and road salt can all dirty your windshield and create reduced visibility in the winter months, this is why it’s important to keep your wiper fluid topped up.
As winter approaches brake maintenance becomes more important than ever because heavy rain is more likely and the roads become hazardous for drivers. The harsh weather conditions may make it harder for your car to stop, which could lead to a potential winter car accident.
Winter weather can be unpredictable and creating an emergency kit for your car will ensure that you’re ready for anything. Harsh conditions or congested roads can leave you stuck for significant periods of time and packing essentials such as a torch, blanket and ice scraper could help you out.
Checking your vehicle’s antifreeze level before winter is essential. Antifreeze and engine coolant provide many benefits, they help to regulate the temperature of your engine as well as protecting your engine against extreme temperatures.
The best way to ensure your car is winter-ready is to get it serviced. It might seem like you’ve checked your car thoroughly but a service will pick up any underlying issues that otherwise you may not have noticed.
Above are just some of the ways you can prepare your car to avoid a winter car accident. However, unfortunately, winter car accidents do still happen. At Thorneycroft we have a dedicated team of solicitors that are committed to you and your road traffic accident claim. We understand that dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be incredibly stressful which is why want to help alleviate some of that stress by not only working to get the best possible compensation claim for you but also by working with rehabilitative charities to aid your recovery.
If you have been involved in a car accident that wasn’t your fault, get in touch today by calling 0880 1979345 or filling out our simple enquiry form and a member of our personal injury team will be in touch.
