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

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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:

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Contact information 

Phone: 01563 503 160

E-mail: enquiries@ayrshireroadsalliance.org

Address:  Ayrshire Roads Alliance, Opera House, 8 John Finnie Street, Kilmarnock, KA1 1DD