Winter brings a unique set of challenges for learners and newly qualified drivers and understanding how to prepare, anticipate hazards, and stay in control is vital.
We focus on building confidence in every condition and winter driving is one of the most valuable skills you can master.
With the right preparation and steady, informed techniques, winter roads can be approached safely and calmly.
Start with the Right Checks
Before setting off, a thorough vehicle check is essential.
Begin with your tyres. Ensure they have adequate tread depth and are inflated to the recommended pressure.
Cold temperatures can reduce pressure, making tyres less effective on wet or icy roads.
Clear all windows, mirrors, and lights, driving with restricted visibility is both unsafe and illegal.
It’s also important to keep your washer fluid topped up with a winter-grade mix that won’t freeze.
Finally, ensure your battery is healthy, as cold weather places added strain on it.
Plan Ahead and Adjust Your Driving
Winter driving is all about anticipation.
Give yourself extra time for each journey, plan your route, and stick to main roads where possible, as they’re more likely to be gritted.
Reduce your speed, increase your following distance and use gentle steering, braking and acceleration.
Sudden inputs increase the risk of losing control on slippery surfaces.
Staying in Control on Snow and Ice
If you encounter ice or compacted snow, keep your steering smooth and avoid abrupt movements.
Use the highest safe gear to reduce wheelspin and apply very light pressure to the accelerator.
If your vehicle begins to slide, steer gently in the direction you want to travel, overcorrecting can make the slide worse.
Begin braking earlier than usual and apply steady, gentle pressure to avoid locking the wheels.
Visibility Matters
Fog, heavy rain and shorter daylight hours all reduce visibility.
Use dipped headlights whenever conditions worsen, and ensure your lights are clean before each journey.
Only use fog lights when visibility is severely reduced. Switch them off once conditions improve to avoid dazzling others.
Drive With Confidence This Winter
Lets Learn School of Motoring help learners gain confidence in every weather condition.
Winter driving offers an excellent opportunity to strengthen your awareness, improve your control skills, and develop safer habits for life.
Give yourself the skills to handle every season safely.
If you’d like to feel more confident behind the wheel this winter, book a winter driving lesson with us today.