As icy conditions are sett to continue, breakdown recovery specialist GEM Motoring Assist urges drivers to be winter-ready. Cold and wintery conditions bring a high risk of breakdowns and other challenges on the road, it said.
The Met Office has issued yellow warnings for snow and ice across parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland, and northern and eastern England. Icy stretches are also expected in some areas further south, with forecasters predicting an Arctic maritime air mass bringing colder air southwards. Rain, sleet, and snow all create slippery surfaces and potential travel disruptions, especially on higher routes or untreated roads.
A little preparation now can prevent inconvenience later, GEM head of road safety James Luckhurst said. “Cold weather puts real strain on a car’s 12‑volt battery, and its ability to hold charge drops significantly as temperatures fall,” he said. “That means it may be at its weakest just when you need it most, so it makes sense to carry out a few simple checks before you set off.”
Keeping up to date on weather forecasts and travel advice can allow you to “hopefully avoid the worst of the weather and make the right decision on whether, when, and how to travel,” he added.
GEM’s five checks for motorists facing wintry conditions are to check your battery age and condition and consider a test or replacement if it’s more than five years old, inspect tyres for tread and pressures so they can grip properly on cold, wet or icy roads, top up screenwash and make sure wipers and lights are clean and working well, allow extra time, reduce your speed and increase following distances on icy or untreated roads, and to pack warm clothing, a fully charged mobile phone and a scraper or de‑icer for every journey.
Stay tuned to EyeOnLondon for the latest news and expert opinions.
Follow us on:
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for the latest videos and updates!
We value your thoughts! Share your feedback and help us make EyeOnLondon even better!
