Insurance

Think like a cub scout - and be prepared...

You need to take extra care driving in winter. Rain, wind, fog, ice and snow can all make driving treacherous - particularly at night. According to Auto Express magazine, around 20% of all car insurance write-offs take place in November and December. An RAC car insurance policy will take care of you when you need it most.

Above all, make sure you and your vehicle are well prepared and take heed of weather reports.

• If the forecast or conditions are really bad, only drive if you absolutely have to.
• If you have to drive in atrocious conditions, then follow our top tips and be prepared!

Watch out for you & your car

• DO make sure you have car breakdown cover.
• DO travel with a supply of drinks and snacks.
  • Pack a flask of tea or coffee, chocolates and some warm clothing.
  • Keep you car well ventilated to prevent drowsiness - and take regular breaks!
• DO plan your journey in advance and check for diversions or closures.
  • Keep an up-to-date roadmap in the car.
  • Listen to local road reports using the RDS function on your car radio.
  • Let friends or family know where you are travelling and when you expect to arrive.
  • Keep a fully-charged mobile phone with you in case of breakdown.
• DO make sure your car is well serviced and in good shape for winter driving.
  • Check tyre pressure (spare tyre too!), tread depth and oil is OK.
  • Make sure you have plenty of fuel.
  • Check the wiper blades for splits or damage before you travel.
  • Make sure all lights are clean - and your number plate too!
  • Know how to replace a tyre if you have a puncture.
  • Know how the de-mister and heating controls work
• DO keep the windscreen clean.
  • Keep a bottle of screenwash in your car.
  • Keep lights clean front and rear.

Watch out in the rain and wind

• DO keep your distance as a wet road means less grip.
  • Braking distances more than double in the wet.
  • Rain and spray makes it hard to see so keep well back.
• DO be prepared for crosswinds on open stretches of road or bridges.

Watch out in snow and ice

• DO clear all snow and ice from your windows.
• DO de-mist the windows properly before you drive off.
• DO drive carefully, even if the roads have been gritted.
• DO keep your distance from the vehicle in front.
• DO watch out for gritting lorries or snowploughs.
• DO drive slowly and smoothly through bends were a skid is more likely.

Watch out in fog

• Fog can appear quickly and thickly - particularly early in the morning and evening.
• DO switch on your rear fog lights, front ones too if you have them.
  • Remember to turn them off when the fog clears.
• DO keep your distance, watch your speed and use your de-mister and wipers.
• DO check your mirrors before you slow down or manoeuvre.