Across the UK temperatures are beginning to fall and van drivers are battling against high winds, heavy rain, and the threat of snow. A report produced by the Association of British Insurers claimed that in the first quarter of 2017, there were a staggering 312.382 accidents on the roads caused by winter driving conditions.
Driving a van in such difficult conditions can be a hazardous challenge, so to keep you safe here are our top winter driving tips.
Winter vehicle preparation is just as important as some personal prep. Not many people know that vans actually use more fuel in the winter months, so it is worth paying extra attention to your fuel gauge. If you are driving during the cold weather try to prevent the fuel levels from falling too low, as you could find yourself stuck on the side of the road in freezing temperatures.
By planning your route in advance, you will be aware of any potential issues that you could face during the journey. Take the time to check the weather forecasts along your planned route and always try to stick to main roads.
The weather can change unexpectedly, so listen to the latest forecasts on the radio while driving. If heavy snow, rain or fog is predicted, consider whether the journey is absolutely necessary. Your safety is much more important than risking an unnecessary trip.
Always charge your mobile phone before starting the journey – or connect it to an in-car charger en route – as you will rely on it for contact if you find yourself stranded during bad weather. It is also worth keeping a pair of boots, a blanket, and some snacks in the van so that should you find yourself waiting for roadside assistance, you won’t get too cold or hungry.
During the winter you will need to adapt your driving style to suit the weather conditions. If there is snow on the ground, keep the van in high gear with low revs, as this will reduce wheel spin and increase control.
While driving, you should monitor the distance between the vehicle in front and your van. This will help you maintain a safe stopping distance, should you need it. During wet conditions leave double the usual distance, but for ice and snow, it may need to be up to ten times the standard stopping distance.
While it is always important to drive at a safe speed, winter weather requires extra attention. If you are driving during icy road conditions and find yourself skidding, remove your foot from the accelerator and steer into the skid.
With dealership in Harlow, we are ideally located for those looking for high-quality used commercial vehicles in Essex. Over the years we have built an excellent reputation for supplying reliable and competitively priced vehicles. To find out more about any of our vehicles, please contact our friendly and knowledgeable team.