With the weather set to get worse over the next few weeks and majority of the country expected to be seeing snow, we have compiled a list of the best tips drivers need to know when driving this winter.

1. Check your car before driving

One of the worst things that can happen to you in bad weather is if you become stranded miles away from home due to a car fault. Before the winter season officially begins, check your car’s tyre pressure as it can often deflate quicker in colder temperatures. Also, keep an eye on your car battery. Winter is peak time for car battery replacements, as colder temperatures can put severe stress on them so now is a great time to book in with your local garage for a winter health check.

2. Invest in snow socks

No, these aren’t for your feet, they’re for your tyres! Snow socks are a great, much easier to install alternative to clunky chains and winter tyres. They provide traction on snow and ice, making driving in the snow safer and easier. They’re quick and simple to install, and when extreme weather hits, you’ll be ready go!

3. Start with fresh windshield wipers

Making sure you have a clear view of the road at all time is one of the most important things to do when driving in bad weather. You can do this by checking your heating and cooling system before winter hits and investing in fresh windshield wipers as they can easily become destroyed with ice and snow.

4. Give yourself enough time between destinations

A lot of accidents happen on the road because people are rushing. When you add snow, ice or any kind of bad weather into the mix, this becomes even more dangerous. At the beginning of your day, make sure your car has enough time to warm up. Always make sure to give yourself enough time between destinations. If this means adding an extra 15 minutes to your commute, it’s better to be safe than sorry!

5. Stock your car with essentials

You never know when you might become stranded and even if you follow all our tips, it can still happen. In the event of an emergency, you should always have essentials in the car to make sure you’re kept safe. This can include high visibility items such as reflectors, extra warm clothing even if you don’t think you’ll need them, an ice scraper and tools to help you jumpstart a dead battery.

Clare Freemantle, Sales & Marketing Director at Harwoods Group said: “Not all of us have been taught how to drive in the snow, so when winter comes around, many of us aren’t prepared for a sudden bout of bad weather. The best thing you can do when the weather starts to become colder is to be as prepared as possible. This means planning for the bad weather before it comes around..."

“Booking in for a winter health check is a great way to make sure your vehicle is as safe to drive as possible. Stock your car with essentials, check the battery and heating systems, and make sure you drive carefully to avoid any accidents.”