PLAN AHEAD TO AVOID ACCIDENTS DURING SNOW- BROKERS IRELAND
Wed Jan 29 2020
AS Met Éireann issued a status yellow snow and ice warning, Brokers Ireland advised motorists of a number of small practical steps to help get safely through the bad weather and avoid the trauma of an accident.
Cathie Shannon, Director of General Insurance Services at the organization, which represents 1,250 Broker firms, advised drivers to familiarize themselves with the detail of their car insurance policies and emergency numbers, in the event of a breakdown.
“It’s advisable to ensure your phone is fully charged in case you may need to call for assistance,” she said.
Having tyre pressure at the correct levels, as recommended by manufacturers, is also advisable she said.
“Cold weather can decrease tyre pressure. It’s also important to know that front-wheel drive vehicles have greater grip, they handle ice and snow better than rear-wheel drives. Rear-wheel drive cars are more prone to skidding,” she said. “Carrying weight in your boot can help somewhat by putting additional weight on the back tyres.”
“If you drive an automatic car, check the detail in the manual to find the override function, manual gears being safer in adverse weather conditions.
Tyre depth should be about 3mm, she said. “Worn tyres are particularly hazardous in ice and snow.”
Ms Shannon advised consumers to plan journeys well and, where possible, use main routes which are more likely to be gritted and endeavour to avoid secondary roads and high ground as much as possible.
Brokers Ireland also advised motorists:
- Not to use very hot or boiling water to clear windscreens, as it can crack the glass
- Check the car’s coolant or antifreeze levels
- Clean lights and make sure they are working
- Keep fuel topped up to cover long delays
- Remember stopping distance can be increased ten-fold during ice and snow, so make allowance for that
- Carry a winter survival kit, including a high-vis jacket and reflective warning triangles
- Be ever more conscious of, and generous to, pedestrians, cyclists and other road users.
