Winter Driving - Think Safety First!

At Coates Offshore safety comes first!

Although we haven't yet seen the snow and ice we had by this time last year across the North East we'd like to encourage all our employees, customers, suppliers, associates, friends and family to take care on the roads this winter. 

It's important to think and act safely on the roads at all times but winter is the season requiring most care and preparation if you're to stay safe on the roads.

Here's some general advice for safe and trouble free driving through the cold, dark months ahead:

Vision

Keep your windscreen and other windows clear – if your vision is obscured through dirt or snow you could face a hefty fine.  You must clear snow from the roof as well as from windows as this can fall onto the windscreen obscuring your view, becoming a hazard to you and other road users.

Dazzle from a low winter sun can be a particular problem.

Improve vision by making sure that the windscreen is clean both inside and out. Scratches, abrasion and chips on the outside can intensify the dazzling effect of the sun.

Check windscreen wipers and replace if necessary.Top up windscreen washer fluid and treat with a suitable additive to reduce the chance of freezing.  Don't use ordinary engine antifreeze as it will damage paintwork.

Visibility

Make sure that all the bulbs in your car lights are working and that lenses are clean. When roads are really mucky you might need to clean lights after every journey. Keep the number plates clean too, as you can be fined if they are dirty and illegible.

If you have to clear snow from the car it's important to clear it from the lights - front and back - as well as from the windows and roof.

Tyres

You should have at least 3mm of tread for winter motoring, and certainly no less than 2mm.

Don't reduce tyre pressures to get more grip – it doesn't work, and reduces stability.

Consider changing to winter or all season tyres – these have a higher silica content in the tread which prevents it hardening at lower temperatures, and therefore gives better grip in cold wet conditions.

 

 

Before you go

Get up at least 10 minutes early to give yourself time to prepare the car.

Don't drive off like a tank-commander, with a tiny hole cleared in the windscreen. Clear all windows using a scraper and de-icer.

Plan routes to favour major roads which are more likely to have been cleared and gritted.

Put safety before punctuality when the bad weather closes in.  Allow extra time for winter journeys but be prepared for the inevitability of being late for work due to unexpected delay.

For longer journey's make sure you have a shovel, some water, something to eat and some warm clothes or blankets in the car in case you get stuck.

Driving in snow and ice

Gentle manoeuvres are the key to safe driving - stopping distances are 10 times longer in ice and snow.

Wear comfortable, dry shoes for driving. Cumbersome, snow-covered boots will slip on the pedals.

Pull away in second gear, easing your foot off the clutch gently to avoid wheel-spin.

Up hill - avoid having to stop part way up by waiting until it is clear of other cars or by leaving plenty of room between the car in front. Keep a constant speed, choosing the most suitable gear well in advance to avoid having to change down on the hill.

Down hill -  reduce your speed before the hill, use a low gear and try to avoid using the brakes. Leave as much room as possible between you and the car in front.

If you have to use brakes then apply them gently. Release the brakes and de-clutch if the car skids.

Out of the car

Beware once you arrive at your destination, whether this be a works car park, on street or at home that the underlying surface could be icy and slippy underfoot. 

Be prepared to wear appropriate footwear and take your time when making your way to and from your car. 

Where salt or grit is available use it to make things safer for yourself and for others who may be using the area after you. 

 

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