If you’ve just passed your test and are looking forward to hitting the road and enjoying that first great burst of freedom, then congratulations! Don’t, however, forget that passing your test is only the first rung on the ladder of your driving journey. If you’re currently scouring the web for manufacturer approved used cars for sale and you think you’ll be able to hop into your new motor without a second thought; think again.
As a driver, you’re always learning and one of the main things they don’t teach you in driving lessons is the difference the changing seasons can make to our driving experience. Understanding and adapting to these seasonal changes is crucial for road safety and today, we’ll be taking you through all four seasons, explaining what to look for, how to prepare and how to stay safe, whatever the weather.
Winter: Navigating Icy Roads and Reduced Visibility
Winter driving poses some of the most challenging conditions on the road thanks to the combination of icy roads, snowfall, and decreased visibility can make driving incredibly hazardous. To stay safe during the winter months, always maintain a safe distance from cars in front of you and behind you, allowing for longer braking distances on slippery roads.
You might also want to consider investing in winter tyres, which offer a better grip on icy surfaces, particularly if you live in an area that sees substantial snowfall. During the winter months, also ensure your glove compartment is stocked with emergency supplies, as you never know when the worst could happen and it’s never a bad idea to be prepared for it.
Spring: Dealing with Rain and Changing Road Conditions
Spring brings with it relief from the cold winter but also ushers in its own set of challenges. Rain, potholes, and uneven road surfaces can make driving surprisingly unpredictable in the weeks between March and June and require a slight adjustment to your driving style and approach.
Remember to slow down in wet conditions, as wet roads will cause your car to handle differently and could throw you off balance. It’s also the ideal season to check your tire pressure and ensure proper alignment to handle uneven road surfaces, as the unpredictable weather of the season could mean you’re driving to work in pure sunshine and driving home in mud and rain.
Summer: Coping with Heat, Glare, and Traffic
Summer is synonymous with glamorous road trips and family holidays, but it also brings its share of driving challenges. Heatwaves, glare from the road, and increased traffic can be tricky to navigate, and that’s before we even mention getting the air conditioning in the car just right. Indeed, the first thing you should do when the weather starts warming up is check your vehicle’s air conditioning system is functioning correctly, as if you’re uncomfortably hot, you won’t be able to concentrate on the road.
Hot weather also means you need to remember to stay hydrated, especially on long journeys, to combat the health effects of extreme heat. Also remember to sun protection measures such as sunglasses, window shades to reduce glare and sun lotion, because you might not be able to feel the sun burning you but trust us, it is!
Autumn: Navigating Fallen Leaves and Limited Daylight
With fallen leaves and limited daylight hours, autumn is a deceptively difficult month that can often be overlooked. Slippery roads covered in wet leaves can be treacherous, but you should also start every journey by clearing your windshield of any leaves, particularly if you often find yourself parked under trees.
During the autumn months (between September and November), also keep checking your tyres, as debris can build up and cause drops in pressure and traction and keep an eye on your lighting as the days start to get shorter. You could be driving to work in clear sunlight one morning then, after the clocks turn back an hour, find yourself commuting in darkness!
