UK weather warnings: how to stay safe when driving in bad weather this winter

With snow, ice, sleet and flood warnings in place this week across the UK, Brits are urged to prepare for disruption on the roads. The Met Office forecasts snow showers and icy stretches with temperatures dropping to -3C in some areas. Leading flexible car insurance provider, Cuvva urges motorists to take extra care on the roads to minimise disruption and accidents.

Adverse weather can increase the number of accidents on the road. Nimble Fins reported that roughly 14.3% of road traffic accidents in Great Britain are caused by slippery roads and motorists travelling too fast for conditions, likely due to bad weather.1

When driving in treacherous conditions, such as wind and rain or snow and ice, Cuvva recommends avoiding the road altogether. If the weather worsens while you’re on the road, consider heading home. That way you can dodge the weather if it takes a turn for the worse, advises Cuvva.

Darryl Bowman from Cuvva said “Icy and wet conditions make driving challenging which can lead to more road accidents that often could be avoided.

“We want everybody to have the flexibility to be able to get behind the wheel as and when they please, in any car they choose, whether it’s for a short trip locally or a long journey across the UK. While it’s our business and it pays the bills, if you can avoid driving in potentially dangerous weather conditions, it may be safer to postpone your trip.”

If you do find yourself having to drive in adverse weather, Cuvva has prepared some key top tips to help you stay safe behind the wheel.

Prepare before you set off

Get up earlier to give yourself time to de-ice the car, and allow more time than usual for journeys. Be sure to plan your trips around major roads which are more likely to be cleared and gritted. During icy weather, it’s best to avoid taking shortcuts on minor roads, as these may not have been treated. Take it slow and remember, it’s better and safer to arrive at your destination a few minutes late than not at all.

Keep an eye on your tyres

You should check for adequate tread regularly and ensure they are in the best possible condition before braving the roads. Poor tyres won’t grip well when driving on roads covered in snow or ice. And if you live in an area where snow is common, it might be worth changing to tyres with a deeper tread. Remember, roads can be extra slippery in wet and icy weather, leaving less room for error.

Slow down and leave extra space between cars

When the weather conditions are bad, often visibility is reduced, roads are slippery, and stopping and turning may take longer. It’s crucial to slow down and leave extra space between you and the car in front. This will help you prevent any sudden movements and give you more time to react to any unexpected changes in traffic or road conditions. Always maintain a safe stopping distance and leave up to ten times the normal gap.

Use your headlights

Having your headlights on can improve your visibility as well as the visibility of other drivers. In heavy rain or snow, use your dipped headlights to avoid reflecting the light back at you and other drivers. Remember to put your fog lights on if visibility drops below 100 metres.

Avoid cruise control

While cruise control can be a convenient feature when driving on dry roads, it’s best to avoid using it in adverse weather conditions. If the roads are slippery, your car may lose traction, causing the wheels to spin. This may lead to a loss of control and increase the chance of a potential accident occurring. It’s always better to have full control of your car and to be able to adjust your speed manually.

Know what to do if you skid

Brake slowly before you start to turn the steering wheel when approaching bends, to help you to avoid slipping. Don’t panic if you skid or if your car loses grip. Take your foot off the accelerator and steer in the direction you want the front of the car to go. Avoid slamming on the brakes, as this can cause the wheels to lock up and make it harder to maintain control of the car.

Stay alert and informed

Stay alert and keep an eye out for potential hazards on the road, such as large puddles, fallen branches, or black ice. Keep an ear out for updates from local weather and traffic reports, and plan your route accordingly.

For more top tips about driving in adverse weather, check out Cuvva’s full guides on how to drive in wind and rain & snow and ice.