Safe winter journeys for parents

Last updated on December 10th, 2024 at 06:56 pm

Winter is a time when roads can become more dangerous, especially for drivers with young children. Snowy and icy conditions require special attention and preparation. In this article, we’ll cover important safety tips for mums who drive with babies and toddlers, as well as advice on keeping your car in top condition.

Preparing your car for winter

The first thing to do is to make sure your car is ready for winter conditions. Regular maintenance will help you avoid trouble on the road. Here are a few key points:

• Tyres: Make sure you have winter tyres fitted. They provide better traction on snow and ice. Check their condition and pressure. Incorrect tyre pressure can reduce braking performance.
• Battery: Cold weather can reduce battery power. According to a study conducted in England, about 30 per cent of all car malfunctions in winter are due to battery problems. Check its condition and replace it if it’s old or weak. A good battery is essential for reliable car performance.
• Brakes: Make sure that the brakes are working properly. According to buycarparts.co.uk brake pads are crucial to the safety of your car, especially in winter conditions. In winter, you may need to take longer to stop, especially on slippery roads. Studies show that proper brake performance can reduce reaction time by up to 20 per cent.
• Fluids: Check the level and condition of all fluids in your car, including antifreeze, engine oil and windscreen washer fluid. Use special winter fluids that won’t freeze.
• Headlights: Make sure all headlights and lights are working. Good visibility is especially important during the winter months when days are short and weather conditions can be unfavourable.

Safety of children in the car

When you prepare your car, don’t forget about the safety of your children. Here are some tips to help ensure a comfortable and safe journey:

• Choose a child seat: Make sure the child seat is installed correctly and is appropriate for your child’s age and weight. It is important that the seat is securely fastened and suitable for winter clothing. Sometimes it is better to dress children in lighter layers to ensure proper positioning in the seat.
• Checking before travelling: Before each journey, check that the seat belts are properly fastened and that there are no foreign objects in the cabin that could be dangerous.
• Vehicle temperature: Ensure that the vehicle is at a comfortable temperature. Switch on the heating if necessary, but do not overheat the interior as this can make children uncomfortable.
• Never leave children alone: Never leave children alone in the car, even for a short time. This is especially dangerous in winter because of possible hypothermia.

Driving in winter conditions

Winter roads require special attention. Here are some recommendations for safe driving:

• Speed: Reduce your speed. Braking distances increase significantly on slippery roads. By reducing your speed, you increase your chances of braking safely.
• Distance: Increase thedistance to the vehicle in front of you. This will give you more time to react in case of an emergency.
• Smooth movements: Avoid sudden turns and braking. Smooth movements will help you avoid slipping.
• Use winter modes: If your car is equipped with winter modes, be sure to use them. This will help you cope with difficult conditions.

Keeping your car in good condition

Regular car maintenance is not only a matter of safety, but also of saving money. Here are some simple steps to keep your car in good condition:

• Regular check up : Check the condition of tyres, brakes and fluids every few months. Having your car diagnosed during the winter can help identify potential problems before they become serious.
• Wash your car: Washing your car regularly not only makes your car more attractive, but also helps avoid corrosion from the salt used to treat roads in the winter.
• Listen to your car: Pay attention to unusual sounds or smells. They may indicate problems that need immediate attention.

Research in England shows that more than 40 per cent of accidents in winter are related to poor weather conditions. Drivers who have not prepared their cars for winter conditions increase the risk of accidents. In addition, statistics show that child seats that are not fitted correctly increase the likelihood of children being injured in a crash. According to the National Road Safety Institute in the UK, proper installation of a seat can reduce the risk of serious injury by 70%. It’s also worth noting that inadequately trained brakes can increase stopping times by 50% on slippery roads, highlighting the importance of checking them regularly.

If you’re looking for the perfect Winter gift for your teenager, EZLicence driving lessons are helpful for first time drivers.

Conclusion

Winter travelling with children can be safe and comfortable if you prepare properly. Pay attention to both vehicle preparation and the safety of your young passengers. By following these tips, you will be able to enjoy winter without worrying about safety on the roads. Remember that safety is not only your responsibility, but also a concern for the future of your children.