• Fuel – Always be prepared to spend more time on the roads during the winter months, so make sure your tank is full.
• Tyres – Snow and ice require the right tyres for extra grip and safer driving. The recommended depth tread is 3mm, for winter, but it may be worth changing to winter or all season tyres as they are designed to give better grip in cold, wet conditions.
• Antifreeze – A 50-50 mixture that protects the engine from overheating in extreme temperatures. Hiring a car from a reputable car hire company will ensure your vehicle is serviced to the highest quality making your journey enjoyable.
• Screen Wash – Apply anti-freeze to the windscreen washer reservoir to ensure that it doesn’t freeze as the temperatures drop.
• Preparing for Travel – Check weather conditions before you set off and if they are really bad, avoid any journeys, unless absolutely necessary.
• Driving in Fog, Snow and Ice – Heavy fog, rain and snow reduce visibility so drive with dipped headlights. In winter months stopping distances are up to 10 times longer so it’s important to keep your distance from the cars in front as well as driving at reduced speed.
• Winter (and Spring) Sun – Glare from the low winter sun can be a hazard, so reduce your speed and keep your windscreen clean.
• Before setting off – Always keep some water and snacks, warm clothes and phone chargers in the car with you in case of emergencies or breakdowns.
• Tiredness – don’t make any journeys if tired, as it reduces your alertness and visibility.
Europcar is a leading vehicle hire company in Europe, providing car mobility to 6 million customers. Through its franchisees and partners in over 150 countries, Europcar gives access to the #1 network in car hire.
Supported by 6,600 dedicated staff and with long-standing local presence.
www.europcar.co.uk