Driving Advice for the Short Days and Long Winter Nights

There's no getting away from it, we are definitely approaching the bleak midwinter. The nights are drawing in, daylight is scarce, and anybody who works standard hours will be leaving for work, and returning, in the dark. The shortest day is here (Friday, December 21st for those who are wondering), but even after we pass the Winter Solstice the cold and dark conditions are set to feature for a while yet.

While it's only sensible that we take precautions during the winter, wrapping up warm, staying in instead of making unnecessary journeys etc., you also need to make sure to care for your car. Your car is essential as the weather worsens and the days get shorter, but there are certain steps that you must take to keep it running properly, and to be extra safe on the roads in winter.

Here's what you need to do to be prepared for driving throughout the winter:

Check the battery, lights and fluids regularly

Car batteries last around four years on average, so if you think yours could be reaching the end of its life then changing it before it causes you any trouble is advisable. It may be an extra cost close to Christmas, but paying for a new battery now is better than being stuck by the side of the road in the cold and dark while you wait to be rescued further down the line.

You should also take the time to check that all of your lights are working and that your fluid levels are acceptable. Having either non-functioning lights or depleted fluids can seriously affect your safety and that of passengers and other road users, so don't just assume that everything is fine.

Give yourself extra journey time to be cautious

We all know roughly how long our regular journeys should take us. Whether we are heading to work, seeing family, or hitting the shops one last time before Christmas, these trips most often take an expected amount of time. In winter though, you need to give yourself a bit of extra time.

Just as examples: adverse weather conditions could cause extra traffic, your windscreens may need defrosting before you set off, or there may be more accidents caused by less cautious motorists. Giving yourself extra journey time means that you wont run late, and will be less stressed behind the wheel. You can relax, and drive with care, with plenty of time on your hands to get where you need to be.

Be comfortable with night driving

With the days shortening, it's an unavoidable fact that most of us will spend more time driving at night than we do the rest of the year. Night driving comes with its own particular set of circumstances that you will need to be ready for, such as dazzling headlights, areas without street lighting, and some motorists travelling faster on quieter roads.

If you're not generally comfortable with night time driving, it may be an idea to get some practice under your belt before it becomes more necessary. Driving for short distances in the dark, without distractions, will help to prepare you for longer journeys.

Be ready for the sun

Conversely, driving in the day during winter can also be hazardous, thanks to the low winter sun. Winter sun is far more dangerous than it's hot, summer counterpart, as its position in the sky can be dazzling. It also reflects the rain and snow, making the road surface unbearably bright at times.

For this reason you should keep a pair of sunglasses in the car. It doesn't matter that it's winter and not summer (after all, they aren't called 'heat glasses' are they?), using a pair of sunnies alongside your sun visor is the best way to maximise visibility. You should also make sure your windscreen is kept as clean as possible.

Keep a rescue kit close to hand

Nobody wants to think about being left stranded and exposed to the elements, but that doesn't mean that you shouldn't be prepared.

Keeping a rescue kit in your boot throughout the course of the season could prove to be a saving grace if such a situation arrives. Keeping a shovel, warm coat, ice scraper, phone charging block, flash light and other tools in the car can give you a chance to investigate any issues yourself, or at least stay warm, comfortable and connected to the outside world until help arrives.

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