Driving during the winter can be frightening and dangerous, especially if you are not used to driving in such adverse weather conditions. If you have children in the car, you will want to make sure that you get from A to B safely. By planning ahead and taking extra precautions, you can ensure you get to your destination with everyone safely in tow.
Here are our five tips to keep you and your children safe in the car while driving in bad, winter weather conditions.
Plan your journey
Cold weather or heavy rain presents a number of challenges, which is why you should check the weather forecasts and news before you begin your journey. Avoid driving in bad winter weather conditions if you can. If you must drive, check your route to see what the road conditions are like, and plan your journey accordingly.
Prepare for winter conditions
You should make sure the car is prepared in all weather conditions, especially in the winter. Check your tyre pressure, the battery, and antifreeze and washer fluid levels. Not only should your car be prepared for winter – but if you are travelling with children in the car, it’s important to think about what they’re wearing. Dressing them in bulky winter clothing isn’t as sensible as it may seem because the fluffy padding can be flattened on impact in a car accident, which means they can slip out from underneath the seatbelt and sustain an injury. Dress them in thin layers and keep blankets in the car in case the temperature drops too.
Drive safely
It goes without saying that you should drive safely on the roads, no matter what the weather is like outside. However, it pays to be extra careful during the winter, especially if you have children in the car. Drive slowly on icy and wet roads, give yourself enough time to manoeuvre and allow extra time for stopping. Be mindful of other road users as they might not be driving as cautiously as you and can cause a road collision.
Pack emergency supplies
Keep these cold weather supplies in the car in case of an emergency:
- An ice scraper and any other de-icing equipment
- Phone chargers
- A torch and any reflective strips in case you are stuck in the snow
- Thermal clothing and extra dry clothing
- A first aid kit
- Food and drinks
- Extra toys to keep the children distracted.
Minimise distractions
Reduce the number of distractions in the car and concentrate on the road. Keep your phone away from you, or connect it to your car’s Bluetooth to avoid taking your hands and eyes off the road to check it. Make sure children are safely strapped into seats and car seats in the back.
Remember that during the winter, cold, icy and wet surfaces can increase the risk of a car accident. Avoid causing an injury to yourself and others in the car by planning ahead, being mindful and driving safely on the roads.
Author Bio:
Thompsons Solicitors is one of the top law firms in the UK that specialise in personal injury. Our solicitors have extensive experience in running and winning road accident claims for victims involved in an accident that wasn’t their fault.
Therese has completed the ‘Advanced Child Car Seat Training Course’ at TRL (Transport Research Lab) and is a CPD accredited car seat expert. She blogs about in-car safety, car seats, tips, reviews, giveaways and advice. She’s a mum on a mission to change the law and raise awareness. She is also a breastfeeding advocate and gentle parenting promoter who loves cloth nappies, baby-wearing, BLW and co-sleeping/bed-sharing.