Even without snow, driving in an Aussie winter can be tricky!
When you think of a Western Australian winter, you probably think of overcast days in the low 20s. You don’t think about snow and ice, and you certainly don’t think about unruly or dangerous driving conditions.
However, even our mild winter weather can pose a bit of a challenge on the roads – and if you’ve ever driven through a storm, you’d know that. Luckily, there are a few small adjustments you can make to help keep yourself and others safe this winter.
Check out our top five tips for safer winter driving below.
Check (and use) your headlights
You should always drive with your headlights on in heavy rain. To make sure your headlights are bright enough to keep you visible in a storm, turn them on while parked close to a wall or garage door. Ask someone to help you check your rear lights as well – and make sure to check your indicators while you’re at it!
Brake and take off slower
Have you ever taken off in wet weather and felt your tyres spinning before the car starts moving? Maybe you’ve felt your vehicle skid or slide out a bit while you’re braking in the rain. Both of these occurrences are pretty alarming and feel very unsafe. To reduce the chance of skidding or spinning your vehicle, make sure to brake very gently and take off very gently on a wet road. You should also check that your tyres have enough tread to withstand slippery conditions.
Pull over in heavy rain
This one’s a bit of a no-brainer, but it’s not always taken seriously. If the rain is coming down faster than your windscreen wipers can clear it, attempt to find a safe place to pull over. Leave your lights on or switch on your hazard lights if you need to. Waiting until you can see clearly is far more important than trying to get to your destination on time!
Leave space
You should leave adequate space between your vehicle and others in any driving conditions – but it’s especially important in winter weather. This is again because of the increased risk of ‘aquaplaning’, when you lose control of the vehicle over wet roads. Leave a gap of two car lengths (or about 3 seconds) between you and the car in front to give plenty of clear space if you do slide out.
Drive slower
Again, it might seem obvious, but it’s the most important rule for safer driving in winter! Driving slower means you will be able to maintain better control of your vehicle, others will see you coming and you’ll be able to brake better in case of an emergency.
Of course, if you do get into an accident this winter, you can look to United Tilt Tray for help. As a comprehensive towing service in Perth WA, we deliver the best in vehicle towing, roadside assistance and the transport of plant, equipment and containers.
A UTT service is transparent and accessible to everyone, with no hidden fees, full access to payment options and complete breakdowns of job pricing delivered to customers before and after engagement. Plus, a UTT service is always conducted in partnership with the customer – with full visibility and notification on truck whereabouts, and regular check-ins with waiting clients.
Call us on 9204 4141, any day, any time!