Driving Home For Christmas: Top Tips for Safe Motoring

While driving safely is something that should of course be of paramount importance to every motorist all year round, the freezing conditions and busy roads at this time of year make it all the more necessary to remind ourselves of best practice behind the wheel. With hundreds of thousands of us set to take to the roads over the festive period, be it driving home for Christmas or on the way to visit friends and family, we’ve got some top tips that every motorist should keep in mind over the season. ------------------------------------------------ Light it up Before any long journeys, make sure all your lights are in working order. Ask a friend of family member to walk around the car while you test all lights, or if you’re on your own you can test by parking on front of a reflective surface. With so few hours of daylight at this time of year make sure you can always be seen by oncoming traffic and pedestrians. Fill your fluids Make sure to check that your oil, water and screenwash are all topped up. Tread carefully Check all tyres to make sure they’re roadworthy, and if necessary consider purchasing a set of winter tyres to prolong the life of your standard tyres and improve your safety in slippery conditions.  Working wipers Make sure your wiper blades are in good condition, you’ll be very thankful for them if you get caught in snow, hailstone or heavy rain while driving. Replace if they’re not doing the job effectively. Fill up on fuel You may find that opening hours at some petrol stations are restricted over the holiday period, so don’t set out on a long journey without being certain you have enough fuel to get to your destination or a definite option to refuel along the way. There are some breakdowns that are truly difficult to avoid, but running out of fuel is not one of them. Pack carefully Keep some essentials in your car at all times just in case you get stuck. You may never need them, but better safe than sorry. On this list you should include an ice-scraper, a torch, water and a blanket or warm clothes. Keep your distance Braking distances are greater in bad conditions – keep in mind that it’s not a race, so leave sufficient space between yourself and the driver in front of you. Don’t take chances Check forecasts before you undertake long journeys, and if there is an advisement not to travel – listen. Don’t take unnecessary risks and endanger yourself and those around you.   Wherever you’re travelling this Christmas, have a safe and happy one.