Driver's Winter Commandments

Severe frost, black ice, freezing drizzle, constantly falling snow, snowdrifts and slippery surfaces are just some of the sights that await us on the roads in winter weather. How to prepare for driving a car in such difficult conditions?

The "white" season of the year is extremely unfavorable for drivers and their vehicles, which makes it much easier to get into accidents, accidents and collisions in the winter months than in other seasons of the year. Lack of winter tires or inappropriate washer fluid is one of the main sins of irresponsible drivers.

So how do you take care of your car and your own safety in winter so that you can use your vehicle regardless of the weather outside? First of all, don't forget to properly prepare for the winter months: inspect, change tires, buy winter windshield washer fluid and buy the necessary accessories to help you fight snow and ice. This must-have set of car accessories includes window scrapers, lock and window de-icers, snow scrapers, winter washer fluid, and even chains if you plan on heading to higher areas, among other things. It is also worth checking the condition of the wipers, because without their proper operation, driving in winter conditions will be very difficult.

Another important, if not the most important, element is our approach to driving during this challenging winter season. “Of course, the most important thing is common sense and the right behavior on the road,” explains Eric Biskupsky from Amervox, a company offering automotive systems in the field of driving safety. – Remember not to exceed the set speed, as the slippery surface will prevent the vehicle from maneuvering properly and may lead to accidents and collisions. It's also better to let off the gas, even if we don't get to our destination on time. Sometimes it's worth practicing your skills for getting out of difficult traffic situations in empty fields or closed yards. Vocational training is offered by advanced driving schools. There we can experience difficult road conditions that we won't be shown in a standard driver's license course (controlled skidding, adequate braking at high speeds, or just "turning" the steering wheel).

Fortunately, the condition of our roads is improving, and cars are increasingly equipped with modern safety systems such as traction control, ABS, ESP (electronic system that stabilizes the vehicle's trajectory when cornering) and others, thanks to which driving in winter should not be dangerous at all.  

– No matter what driving assistance systems you have, we must always pay attention to the appropriate distance from other vehicles. Before you go on a trip, you should also check the condition of the tires (including tire pressure), brakes and wipers and other elements that can affect not only the comfort of driving on the roads, but also our lives, adds Eric Biskupski . The technical condition of the car and its equipment are an important help, but still only a help of common sense.