Getting you there safely is as easy as A,B,C!

The British weather is far from predictable which is why we must be prepared for every eventuality when it comes to getting from A to B safely.

Fortunately, this can be as simple as A,B,C!

A – Avoid unnecessary journeys

If weather conditions are severe, consider postponing your journey until conditions settle. You may also wish to pull over somewhere safe and visible if you get caught in poor conditions.

B – Be prepared for all eventualities

No matter the weather, plan ahead for every eventuality by keeping your vehicle well maintained, topped up with oil, coolant, screen wash etc and clearly visible at all times. Even with the right preparation, unforeseen breakdowns can still occur, so it’s recommended to keep a winter care kit stored in your vehicle, especially during winter, as well as a charged mobile phone.

We recommend something like The AA’s winter car essentials checklist as a guide.

C – Careful and cautious driving behaviour

If your journey is unavoidable, we share some tips below on how to navigate in varied weather conditions by slowing right down, keeping a safe distance, keeping visible, being aware of potential hazards.

Come rain...

Driving on wet leaves can be as slippery as ice so reduce your speed and keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead
Additionally, remember your braking distance in wet conditions should be at least double that of dry conditions

Come shine...

If you have air-conditioning in your vehicle, use it and keep the windows and sunroof closed to help maintain a cool climate for your journey
Inspect the tread, side wall and your tyre pressures before every trip. Under-inflated tyres can overheat and blow-out or roll off the rim
Your vehicle’s cooling system works harder in hot weather. Check and regularly top up your coolant. Warning: never open your coolant system when the engine is warm – hot coolant is under immense pressure!
Keep a clear windscreen, ensure your wipers work and keep a pair of sunglasses in the car no matter the time of year – each help stop you from becoming dazzled by a low sun.
Stay alert and hydrated by taking plenty of water with you on – especially on longer journeys and when sat in a hot car. Plan your journey with plenty of rest stops along the way.

And come winter...

As roads become icy and wet, your stopping distance should be 10x longer. Make sure to drive at slower speeds and increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front
Potholes are more common over the winter months so take care if you need to approach one. Swerving out of your lane can put yourself and others at risk. Instead, take your foot off the pedal and glide over
When visibility is seriously reduced, make sure you know where to locate your fog lights. This will help you and others drivers navigate safely. Don’t forget to switch them off when visibility improves!
Shorter daylight hours mean more driving in the dark so make sure all the lights on your vehicle are working and be sure to check them every few weeks
Seasonal illnesses can leave you feeling unwell. If at any time of the year you are feeling ill or taking medications that may make your feel drowsy, this can affect your reaction times. Ask a friend to drive or rest up and avoid the journey if possible
Cold temperatures as well as your lights and heating more can put extra strain on your battery. Check your battery to avoid becoming stranded
Top up your coolant with anti-freeze when temperatures drop below freezing
Keep your windscreen clean inside and out. Check regularly for chips as these can grow in the colder weather
The law states that you must be able to see out of every glass panel in your vehicle, so on snowy/frosty days, allow extra time to clear your windows before you set off on your journey to avoid unnecessary penalties

Athlon are proud to partner with Brake, the UK’s biggest road safety charity as part of our commitment to driver wellbeing and making roads safer for all. We recommend reading up on Brake’s tips on how to drive if you get caught in challenging weather conditions: Checking it's safe to travel | Brake