How should a driver be dressed in winter?

As many as 15% of drivers admit to temporarily losing control of their car due to driving in thick-soled shoes. In winter, people who get behind the wheel should also choose a wardrobe in terms of driving safety.

In winter, drivers are exposed to more difficult situations on the road, so factors that can further reduce driving safety should be avoided, says Zbigniew Veseli, director of the Renault driving school. – They also include clothing items such as shoes, jackets, gloves and hats.

The best solution is to have a change of shoes that the driver puts on before starting the trip. Driving shoes should not in any way restrict the movement of the ankle joint, their soles should not be too thick or wide, as this may cause, for example, the simultaneous pressing of the gas and brake pedals. In addition, the thick outsole reduces the chance of feeling pressure being transferred to the pedals.

Slippery soles are also dangerous. A situation in which, for example, your foot suddenly slips off the brake pedal can have dire consequences. Shoes should be thoroughly cleaned of snow and dried, at least on a car mat.

Gloves are an equally important element of winter clothing. Wool, cotton or other fibers that do not have sufficient adhesion are not suitable for driving a car. You should also avoid buying gloves that are too thick, as they prevent you from holding the steering wheel correctly and securely. Five finger leather gloves are best for driving.

Also, the jacket should not be too thick so as not to hamper the movement of the driver, and the cap should not be too large so that it does not slip down into the eyes.

It is strictly forbidden to drive a car in a hood, which significantly reduces the field of vision, says Zbigniew Veseli. The driver must stop in a safe place after warming up the car interior and only after removing the jacket, hat or gloves, continue the journey.