Vehicle check: before the onset of wintry weather, check your lights, your oil and anti-freeze levels, your wiper blade condition, water levels, and your tyres for any bulges or small cuts – don’t forget to check the spare tyre.
Be safe, be seen: use dipped lights even before darkness has fallen when following other vehicles and in built-up areas.
Watch out for motorcyclists and cyclists: leave space for cyclists and be prepared for the fact that cyclists may not have sufficient lighting or have high visibility clothing on.
Overtaking: it is more difficult to judge a safe gap in the dark so don’t overtake unless you are absolutely certain it is safe to do so — particularly on motorways.
Be aware of pedestrians: particularly in poorly light areas and pay particular attention to children that may be walking to and from school.
Driving in fog or heavy rain: switch on your fog lights and drive slowly when visibility is poor. Turn on your hazard lights if necessary to alert drivers following behind.
Keep your distance: always remember to keep the recommended distance between you and the car in front — two seconds in dry conditions and four seconds in wet.
