If you are heading to see family or going away for Christmas this year, it is likely that you are going to be using the motorway. This is a busy time of the year anyway, but with the train strikes, it makes it even busier than the usual Christmas rush on the roads!
Motorways are generally safe roads to drive on, but because of the high speeds on the motorway, as well as the larger amount of traffic and the winter weather it is important to make sure that you are aware of the rules and regulations that you might expect to find on the motorway, as it can differ from the usual roads that you might use.
Things Like smart motorways, how to use the hard shoulder and vehicle markings such as chapter 8 chevrons like this https://www.pvluk.com/chapter-8-chevrons/ are all important things to understand when it comes to the motorway. When you have a good understanding of the motorway, it is naturally much safer for you and those around you.
Something else that is highly advisable before making any long journey, but in particular in the winter, is to make sure that your vehicle is safe to travel on the road. It is good practice to do vehicle checks before you head off on your journey, and in the winter, this is something that could save you from having a vehicle breakdown, or an accident.
Although it might be tempting to head off straight away and get there as soon as possible, it is worth taking the time to do the right vehicle checks to ensure that your journey goes as smoothly as possible.
Here are some important things to check in the winter…
Battery – The winter is the most common time of the year that a battery is more likely to stop working, as the cold temperatures have an effect on it. Making sure that your battery is secure and well protected from the cold can help, and it is always advisable to check a battery after a car has been sitting for a while.
Tyres – This is of course important in the winter more than ever as road conditions become more difficult. Check the tread on the tyres to ensure that they are suitable for travel.
Lights – In the winter it is more likely that you will need to use your lights as the hours of darkness are longer. As well as this you may also need to use your fog lights, so make sure all of your lights are working before you travel.
Essential checks and kit for any long drive
Before any long journey, a few basic checks can prevent accidents and breakdowns. Make sure all your lights are working, including headlights and indicators, and check the oil.
Carry a tool kit, along with some extra water and food in case you are delayed. In winter, add an ice scraper, de-icer and a blanket, so you can clear the windows properly and stay warm if you are stuck for a while.
Always make sure everyone in the car is wearing a seat belt. It sounds obvious, but if something goes wrong and the car leaves the road, it makes a huge difference. Many breakdowns and accidents happen because drivers skip the simplest checks, so a few minutes spent before you set off is time well spent.
Battery, lights and wipers before a long trip
Roads get much busier in the run up to Christmas, with shopping trips, festive events and long journeys to see family. If you rarely use motorways, it is worth refreshing your knowledge before you set off: what to do if you break down, what the signs mean and what the chevron markings on the back of some vehicles indicate.
Then check the car itself. Winter is when batteries are most likely to fail, because temperature changes put them under strain. Covering the bonnet overnight can stop the battery getting too cold, and if the car has been reluctant to start, have the battery tested before a long trip.
Lights get far more use in winter, and it is an offence to drive with ones that do not work, so check them all before you leave. Finally, make sure the windscreen is completely clear, the wipers are working properly and the washer fluid is topped up, as you may need to clear the screen several times on the way.