Winter Driving
Winter can bring bring unexpected road conditions, from flooding, ice, snow and limited visibility. With the correct preparation you can navigate unpredictable weather confidently, keeping yourself and other road users safe.
Preparing your vehicle
Check your tyres
Proper tyre maintenance is essential in winter. Make sure your tyres have a minimum tyre depth of 3mm, as this improves grip on icy and wet surfaces.
Consider switching to winter tyres, which are designed to perform better in colder temperatures and offer greater traction on snowy or icy roads.
Inspect your battery:
Cold weather puts extra strain on car batteries, ensure your battery is fully charged and in good condition.
If your battery is more than three years old consider having it tested or replaced.
Screen wash and wipers:
Use a winter grade screen wash to prevent it from freezing, make sure your wipers are in good condition and able to clear heavy rain, snow and ice.
Check your lights:
Visibility is often reduced in winter, make sure all your lights are working and your lenses are clean.
Use headlights during the day and ensure fog lights are functional for heavy mist or fog.
Defrost and de-ice:
Before setting off, fully clear ice and snow from all windows, mirrors, lights and the roof.
Driving with obstructed views or snow on the roof (which could slide onto your windscreen) is dangerous and illegal.
Driving tips for winter roads
Adjust your speed:
Drive at a slower pace than usual to account for lower grip on icy or wet roads. It’s harder to control and stop your vehicle on slick surfaces, so give yourself extra time and space.
Increase following distance:
Increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front. On icy roads, this should be at least ten times the normal gap. This extra space will give you more time to react if they suddenly slow down or stop.
Brake smoothly and gradually
Sudden braking can cause your vehicle to skid. Instead, apply the brakes lightly and in small, controlled increments to reduce your speed safely. If you have anti-lock brakes (ABS), press the pedal down firmly and do not pump the brakes.
Use higher gears in icy conditions
If you're driving a manual car on icy roads, drive in the highest possible gear that won't cause your engine to stall or labour. This will give your tyres the best chance of gripping the ice
.
Avoid sudden steering movements
Steer smoothly to maintain control, especially in snowy or icy conditions. If your vehicle begins to skid, stay calm, release the accelerator, and steer gently in the direction you want to go. Avoid slamming on the brakes.
Take caution on bridges and shaded areas
These spots are often the first to freeze and the last to thaw, making them particularly hazardous. Approach these areas slowly and with caution, even if the rest of the road appears clear.
Plan your route
Stick to main roads where possible. Avoid smaller, rural roads in severe weather, as they’re often more prone to ice.
Stay informed of local road conditions
Always check for updates on road conditions before starting your journey. Tune in to local radio, check online resources, or use a reliable weather app for the latest updates.
Prepare for delays
Winter conditions can lead to unexpected delays due to traffic, accidents, or road closures. Plan extra time for your journey, especially if travelling in adverse weather conditions.
Consider public transport
If the weather forecast predicts extreme conditions, consider using public transport where possible or avoid driving altogether if the journey isn’t essential.
Inform someone of your journey
If you’re travelling in poor conditions, let a friend or family member know your expected arrival time and route. This way, someone will be aware if you experience delays or need assistance.
Take regular breaks
Winter driving can be tiring, especially in challenging conditions. Stop regularly to rest, particularly on longer journeys, to stay alert and focused.
Emergency kit checklist
Always have an emergency kit in your vehicle for winter journeys containing:
• Warm blanket and clothes
• Ice scraper and de-icer
• Torch and spare batteries
• First aid kit
• High-energy snacks and water
• Mobile phone charger
• Shovel for clearing snow
• Jump leads
Winter road safety for cyclists and pedestrians
Drivers should be aware of pedestrians and cyclists on the roads, who may also face slippery paths.
Take extra care at crossings, junctions, and pedestrian zones, and allow ample room when overtaking cyclists in wintry conditions.
Road conditions and updates
Stay informed about real-time road conditions across Ayrshire:
Live traffic updates:
Check real-time traffic and travel information for the entire Scottish trunk road and motorway network.
Traffic Scotland
Weather warnings:
Check for severe weather alerts in your area.
Met Office
SEPA
Winter gritting:
View our gritting routes and find out where our gritters have been.
Gritter Tracking
Follow us for updates
Stay updated with winter road conditions and more by following us on:
Facebook
X
Contact information
Phone: 01563 503 160
E-mail: enquiries@ayrshireroadsalliance.org
Address: Ayrshire Roads Alliance, Opera House, 8 John Finnie Street, Kilmarnock, KA1 1DD