While the UK is experiencing a slight rise in temperatures, it’s still rather chilly. As the wintry weather persists, drivers are being reminded of a crucial Highway Code rule.
Neglecting to properly inspect your car before setting off could lead to a substantial fine. Leasing Options experts have put together a list of six tasks all drivers should undertake immediately.
They previously informed the Liverpool ECHO that one of these pertains to Highway Code rule 229, which stipulates: “You must be able to see, so clear all snow and ice from all your windows”. This includes your mirrors, and drivers must ensure all are clear and thoroughly de-misted.
Failure to keep windscreens, windows, and mirrors clean could result in a £100 fine. Leasing Options also previously offered additional advice for safe winter driving: Check and replace worn-down windscreen wipers To maintain full visibility during rain, snow, and ice, it’s important to check for any splits or stiffness in the rubber of your windscreen wipers – and replace them as soon as possible if needed.
Check your tyres for inconsistencies You should inspect your tyres for any irregularities and make sure they are inflated to the correct pressures. If they aren’t, this deviation could impact braking distances and steering feel, reports Devon Live.
If your motor has been stationary for a while, it’s possible that slight flat spots have formed on the tyres, which can cause vibrations. A quick spin should sort this out, thanks to the heat generated by friction and rotation. Also, keep an eye out for any signs of cracking on the sidewalls and check your tread depth. .
With the days getting shorter, it’s crucial to make sure all your car’s lights are in working order, not just for your own visibility, but also so other drivers can see you from a distance. Broken lights during these dark evenings could lead to a mishap.
Make sure all your vehicle’s lights are working, including both front and rear fog lights. To check the brake lights and reverse lights are working, reverse up to a garage door or large window.
It’s important to ensure the coolant system hasn’t frozen. The coolant should be at the right concentration to prevent freezing at lower temperatures.
Don’t just top up the existing coolant in your vehicle with water; the mixing ratio should be 50:50. And always use coolant of the same colour as what’s already in the system.
Another fluid that needs to be at the correct concentration to prevent freezing is screen wash. For the winter months, it’s best to use a 50:50 mix of water and screen wash.