Tips for safe driving in winter

The coldest season of the year is about to arrive and for the driving conditions change sufficiently to adverse weather. Check lights, fluid levels, tires and air conditioning, plus some prudence are key to avoid problems in winter.

Low temperatures, fog, night frost, rain, days with less light ... We are on the threshold of winter, and even in southern Europe is always more gentle, we must be prepared to deal with it in the best conditions of safety, both in the shorter journeys as vacation trips.

Many drivers these days take their vehicle to move over the bridge or the Christmas holidays at resorts or visiting family, and before it is necessary to meet minimal advice and spend some time maintenance tasks that can be vital to avoid an accident and make travel with maximum comfort and safety.

The first thing is to recommend an overhaul of the vehicle in the official dealer of the brand or a trusted specialist workshop, addressing the specific needs of this age in which we live. We must therefore pay attention to the fluid levels in the vehicle, especially the engine coolant, which add antifreeze to keep from freezing when temperatures drop and the windshield washer fluid, we need to remove mud or rain circular.

Other elements that must pass review are the tires, which should be in good carcass and the tread with a pattern that is never less than 4 mm. In mountain areas where the cold is more intense it is advisable to mount a set of winter tires, which by its compounds, drawing and incorporating steel lamellae become very effective with snow, ice and rain, and can be used for transit through ports that are needed strings because they are approved to do so.

A good travel planning can avoid unpleasant surprises. Before you get started it is advisable to check the status of the roads are going to move, as there may be pathways by cuts or restrictions because of the snow. In this case, extreme caution when driving and obey all signs.

The best advice we can give for travel in winter is prudence and good vehicle maintenance. Drive smoothly, avoiding sharp reactions with the steering wheel and accelerator and be very alert to anticipate any danger, always keeping the safety distance with the vehicle that precedes us.When starting, let the clutch gently, so that the wheels do not skid.

When it rains intensively can form pools of water on the road, and crossing is no risk of aquaplaning. In this case, slow down, do not touch the brake and hold the wheel tightly. And in case of damage or any event with the vehicle, place in a safe place and put the triangles to be seen.