Driving in Bad Weather: What You Need to Know
With the current weather being experienced across Ireland, it’s crucial for companies with staff driving as part of their job to ensure safety on the roads. Here are some essential precautions recommended by the Road Safety Authority for driving during the winter months:
- Check Your Tyres
- Tyres are your only contact with the road. Ensure they have at least the minimum legal tread depth of 1.6mm, but ideally, they should be changed before reaching this point. Proper tyre pressure is also essential for optimal performance in extreme conditions.
- Use Your Lights
- With shorter days, it’s advised to use dipped headlights during the day to increase visibility. Ensure both headlights and taillights are in working order.
- Maintain a Safe Distance
- Stopping distances increase in winter weather. Slow down and allow extra space between your vehicle and the one in front.
- Ensure Clear Visibility
- Always de-fog or de-ice windows and mirrors before driving. Carry a de-icer and screen scraper, but avoid using boiling water as it can crack the windscreen.
- Beware of Black Ice
- Black ice is a major winter hazard as it is hard to see. Be cautious in sheltered or shaded areas, under trees, and near high walls.
- Be Prepared
- Equip your vehicle with a high visibility vest, spare fuel, appropriate footwear, a hazard warning triangle, a spare wheel, tow rope, shovel, de-icing equipment, spare bulbs, first aid kit, fire extinguisher, a working torch, a car blanket, additional clothing, and some food and water.
For more information on driving in winter conditions, please visit the Road Safety Authority’s website.
