Visit your family safely this Christmas

Winter weather can be a hazard over the festive break so the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) are urging drivers to be extra cautious as they take to the road to visit their loved ones across the country.

The IAM advice is simple;

plan your trip

allow extra time for your journey and build in 20 minute breaks at least every two hours

let someone know your travel route and expected arrival time

check travel advice from weather forecasters and the emergency services before you set out

don’t drive when you would normally be asleep

ensure you have enough windscreen washer fluid in the dispenser and wiper blades are not torn or worn

check that all your lights are clean and working correctly, including the fog lights

tyres are crucial the legal limit is 1.6mm but below 2mm grip is reduced

check water/coolant (anti freeze) and oil levels to prevent over-heating and engine failure

pack an emergency kit with blankets, de-icer, a torch, first aid kit, warning triangle, water and a fully charged mobile phone

When packing your car don’t put luggage or presents on the rear parcel shelf. They will obscure your vision of the road behind you and turn into dangerous projectiles if you have to brake sharply. Avoid having loose items in the vehicle: the last thing you need is a broken present after all the shops are shut.