Practical Winter Driving Advice for Safer Journeys
Harsh driving conditions are on the way
As January draws to a close, it can feel as though the worst of winter has passed. But history suggests otherwise. Some of the most disruptive conditions often arrive later in the season, stretching through February and sometimes into March.
Late winter regularly brings sudden cold snaps, overnight ice, heavy rainfall, strong winds and short bursts of snow. Road surfaces are already worn down after months of freezing and thawing, daylight remains limited, and darker mornings and evenings can reduce concentration and reaction times.
This is often the point where drivers begin to relax — and that’s exactly when risk increases.
Be Ready Before You Set Off
Safe winter driving begins well before the engine starts. At this time of year, visibility and vehicle control remain essential.
Your windscreen washer fluid should always contain proper screen wash with a low freezing point. Using plain water can lead to frozen washer jets or smeared glass, turning even short trips into stressful journeys.
Wiper blades that seemed adequate in autumn may struggle with winter grime, while dirty headlights and number plates can reduce visibility far more than many motorists realise.
Tyres also deserve continued attention throughout winter. Cold temperatures naturally lower tyre pressure, and worn tread significantly increases stopping distances on wet or icy roads. Even at slow speeds, grip can disappear quickly — especially on untreated rural routes and side roads.
Driving in Different Winter Conditions
Winter weather brings a range of hazards, and adjusting your driving style matters more than confidence or experience.
Snow and ice
In icy or snowy conditions, smooth and gentle driving is critical. Accelerate gradually, steer carefully and leave far greater braking distance than normal.
Black ice remains one of the most dangerous threats because it is often invisible. It commonly forms on bridges, shaded areas, untreated roads and during early mornings — sometimes even when temperatures feel mild.
Heavy rain
When rainfall is intense, the risks shift to aquaplaning and reduced visibility. Standing water can build quickly, particularly on damaged road surfaces.
Lower speeds, smoother steering and increased following distance all help reduce the chance of losing control.
Strong winds
High winds can affect stability, especially on exposed roads or when overtaking large vehicles such as lorries.
Sudden gusts may push vehicles sideways, so extra caution is needed around trees, debris and vulnerable road users like cyclists, who may be impacted even more.
Planning for Breakdowns and Delays
Winter preparedness also means considering what happens if something goes wrong.
A winter-ready vehicle should carry a few simple essentials that make a big difference during breakdowns or unexpected delays:
Warm clothing
Torch
Fully charged phone
De-icer and ice scraper
Blanket for prolonged cold waits
A blanket may sound old-fashioned, but it can be extremely valuable if you’re stranded in freezing conditions.
The Late-Winter Hazard of Potholes
One risk that often becomes worse towards the end of winter is pothole damage.
Repeated freezing and thawing weakens road surfaces, causing potholes to appear suddenly — often hidden under puddles or made difficult to spot in poor light.
Striking a pothole at speed can damage tyres, wheels, suspension or steering components within seconds. Repairs can be costly, and insurance claims are not always straightforward.
Pothole Cover and Insurance Protection
This is where the right insurance can offer additional reassurance.
When arranging a new policy or renewing an existing one with Grove & Dean, pothole cover can be added within 14 days of purchase or renewal. This provides protection against unexpected repair costs caused by deteriorating winter road conditions.
Understanding what your policy includes before damage occurs is far easier than dealing with the aftermath later.
Final Thought
Winter may be moving into its later stages, but it is far from finished. Remaining alert, staying prepared and ensuring your insurance reflects real seasonal risks can make all the difference during this unpredictable final phase of cold weather driving.
Grove & Dean Private Clients is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA registration number 307002). This article is for information purposes only and does not constitute advice or a personal recommendation.
