Winter driving tips

With winter being upon us, driving on New Zealand roads has the potential to be more treacherous then ever. However a few simple changes to the way you drive will help you to be safe on the roads in the following months.

• Quite often in the winter moths there is a reduction in visibility due to rain, snow or fog. This will reduce your ability to see and be seen. Drive with your lights on dip in these conditions.
• Snow chains are a great way to provide you with greater traction on icy or snow covered roads. Chains must be installed on the drive wheels - make sure you know if your vehicle is front or rear wheel drive. When you put on chains, make sure you are completely off of the roadway to the left. When removing chains, drive to a pull-off area where you can safely remove them.
• You should not exceed 25kph with snow chains and should take special care with following distances and speed.
• You can also lower your tyre pressure to spread the tread for extra traction - do not go below 20psi with tubeless tyres, and remember to pump them up again before heading onto the highway.
• Black Ice is extremely dangerous. Look for road signs warning of ice and be cautious of areas in permanent shadow.
• Winter sun is low lying and can cause prolonged glare and sunstrike. Wear sunglasses and keep your windscreen clean and washer refilled. Always carry something in your car to cover your windscreen on frosty nights. Alternatively, use an ice scraper or cold water to clear your screen of ice.
• Reduce speed when driving in rain and increase braking distance. Use low gear when driving through light surface flooding.
• Check current road conditions; always choose safety over convenience when selecting your route. To find out what is happening on the roads, you may want to call the Highway Conditions Reports: 0900 33 222Calls cost $1.00 per minute. Alternatively visit www.snow.co.nz for latest snow reports online including avalanche reports.
• Always dress for the conditions – carry warm clothes in case you get stuck or break down. For longer trips you should always keep food and water in your vehicle.