Read below for IT Garage Services’ top 10 tips for Driving in Winter.
Driving in Scotland can be an absolute dream. The landscape, the wildlife and the wonderful people and places make Scotland one of the most desirable destinations in the world.
But when the weather turns in the Autumn and winter, the roads in Scotland and the Highlands can be treacherous, even for experienced drivers.
Keep yourself safe on the Scottish roads this cold weather season and read our top 10 tips for Driving in Winter.
1. Keep your distance
Stopping distances for vehicles on snow and ice are significantly increased. This makes driving close to the vehicle in front of you even more dangerous as you may not be able to stop in time if they stop suddenly. Make sure to keep your distance from the vehicle in front of you to give yourself plenty of time to see any dangers and to stop without incident.
2. Drive in high gear in snow and ice
Driving your car in a higher gear will help you to keep control. If it’s icy and you’re struggling to get started, try pulling away in second gear.
3. Check your lights
In the winter, the days get shorter, and those nights get even darker. This means you’ll be relying on your lights more than usual. Make sure to check your lights before you set off. That way you can be sure you can see where you’re going, and that others can see you!
4. Check your tyres
Tyre maintenance is doubly important in the winter months.
Regularly check your tyres for cracks, or any tears or bulges. Also, check the depth of your tread.
The minimum tread level of a tyre is 1.6mm, but during the winter months, it’s safer to have 3mm of tread on your tyres to help with traction and grip on those slick Highland roads.
5. Take your time
The last thing any driver wants to be is in a rush. Add in wintery conditions, and a lack of experience on the road, and waiting until the last minute to leave will cause you so much unnecessary stress. When driving in winter, you have to take your time so give yourself as much time as possible by leaving even earlier than you usually would.
6. Skidding
Black Ice and slippy roads are real dangers in Scotland during the winter months.
If you’re driving in freezing or wet conditions, take it slow and try to avoid any quick turns or risky situations.
If you do lose control of the car on ice, there are a few things to remember. Keep both hands on the wheel and avoid braking. Try to steer into the skid to straighten up. Above all, remain calm!
7. Prepare for Breakdown
Breaking down on a dark, wet Highland road is a massive inconvenience for any traveller. Fail to prepare for these eventualities and you could be left in the cold for some time!
Take a blanket, torch, phone and battery pack, some food and water. That way you are prepared for any wait for a recovery vehicle should you break down.
The Best Mechanics Near Me
Before we head into winter, why not have your local Inverness garage to make sure it’s winter ready!
Take your vehicle to the best garage services in Inverness – IT Garage Services! It’s your one-stop-shop for car repair in Inverness providing services like:
- Car servicing Inverness
- MOTs Inverness
- Brake tests and repair
- Fast fit services Inverness
- Diagnostics and car repair near me
You can find the best garage in Inverness – IT Garage Services at
35H Harbour Rd Inverness IV1 1UA
Contact us now to book an appointment or for any enquiries:
01463 229922
info@it-garage.beststaghen.com
Mon-Fri 8am- 6pm
