In recent years the UK has seen some of the coldest winters in the nations recorded history. With the temperatures regularly dropping below zero, the disruption to many businesses and the delay on most motorways has caused countless problems.
While the winter of 2013/2014 ranked highly as one of the mildest winters recorded, motorists now have to get ready to face the cold temperatures seen in years before. Nobody wants a repeat of the chaos that normally occurs when the temperature drops and snow begins to settle which is why getting your car prepared for winter has never been so important.
Allstar fuel card services have stepped up to the challenge this year and produced a winter motoring checklist in a bid to help prepare motorists for the freezing temperatures and heavy snow fall that is expected to span most of the UK.
The Cold Truth
The damage cold weather can cause to vehicles is much more severe than most motorists realise. Being prepared for the worst circumstances will help to prevent any lasting damage and keep disruption to a minimum, especially during busy weekdays where cold temperatures can cause major motorways to be the most dangerous.
Morning delays are to be expected and, in the instance of ice and snow, it is likely that cars will suffer from the freezing temperatures. A large proportion of the cars in the UK aren't equipped to deal with the winter weather as well as they need to be to keep journeys safe. Those who frequent long trips or have to commute daily will have to take extra action to prevent long-term damage and expensive fees.
Fortunately, there are some easy and reliable tips that can take some of the pressure off and help to keep vehicles in good working condition through the winter. Allstar's winter motoring check list covers all the basics of winter care maintenance and how to prepare in advance for any trouble.
Winter Protection
Carrying all the essentials with you as you travel is second nature to some motorists but stocking up and including a few extra tools for the winter will help you out during the different conditions. Adding tools like ice-scrapers, salt and a shovel to your boot will speed up your work in the morning and could dig you out of any troublesome spot during the day.
Impairment of vision on the road is a common problem faced by many who frequently travel on busier roads in the winter. As Allstar advise, keeping a good quality screen wash and ensuring that your screen is clean both inside and out will keep road vision as clear as possible when confronted with heavy rain and low sun reflection.
At some point almost every motorist will breakdown and this more frequently happens when conditions are at their worst. Looking out for weather warnings and checking the forecast in advance is essential for preparing for the day ahead. If the weather is set to be cold or icy then taking the correct clothing and supplies with you to work will mean that if you do break down you won't be left unprepared.
