7 key tips for winter driving
Driving in the winter months can be quite challenging. That's why we've prepared 7 points of focus to help you feel more at ease behind the wheel this season.
Less light
Less daylight and shorter daylight hours are among the serious challenges drivers face during the winter months. Driving in low light requires more concentration, reduces attention, makes us more tired and makes us sleepier.
High winds
High winds during the season can make driving very difficult.
It is important how strong the wind is as well as its direction. We can get an idea of this mainly by the roadside trees, so take note as we drive. We need to approach overtaking trucks in wind with particular care, so let's hold the wheel tight and correct ourselves if we veer off our trajectory.
Rain
Rain is extremely common in all seasons, but in Bulgaria especially in winter. Interestingly, not only heavy but also light rain provokes significant driving difficulties.
Rain reduces the visibility and the grip of the tyres on the road surface. When the loss of grip is complete, the tyres are no longer in contact with the road due to the layer of water between the asphalt and the tire - this phenomenon is called aquaplaning. In these cases you need to stay calm, hold the steering wheel firmly, stop accelerating and do not brake until you have regained traction.
In the rain, and when driving in other adverse conditions, keeping a safe distance with surrounding vehicles is key.
Fog
Fog is a fairly common weather phenomenon in winter. It's important to increase the safe distance from the vehicle in front and remember to turn off your fog lights when you don't need them. Above all, bear in mind that driving in fog makes you tired more quickly, so you should drive with caution.
Icy and snowy roads
Of course, the main challenges when driving in winter are snowy and icy roads. Our attention in these conditions must be heightened and we must be prepared for different situations.
A basic rule when driving in winter conditions is to be equipped with proper tires. If you are going to drive on heavily snow covered roads, make sure you also take chains to use when needed and be sure to know how to fit them.
As well as snow, we also should be cautious for ice, especially as it is much less visible than snow and therefore can be encountered unexpectedly. Icy areas are usually in shady areas with a lot of moisture. If we encounter an icy road, we should carefully lift our foot off the accelerator and try to control the trajectory with gentle movements.
Maintenance
As much as servicing and maintaining your car is always important, it is even more so in winter. You need to be prepared to face adverse weather conditions with a car in excellent condition to minimize risks.
It's important that all lights are in good working order - so you can see well and be seen.
The role of the tires is key as they are the only contact of the vehicle with the road.
Fluid and battery checks are a must before you go traveling.
Also check - and if necessary - replace the windscreen wipers.
Winter tires
Using the appropriate tires for the season is paramount for driving safety and stability.
The specificity of tires suitable for winter conditions comes mainly from the quality of the rubber and the tread pattern of the tires - they use a softer rubber compound that withstands low temperatures and slippery surfaces, the tread has a deeper gripper, and the so-called sipes.
The best performance of tires suitable for winter conditions is observed at temperatures below 7 degrees Celsius, and for tires suitable for summer conditions - above 7 degrees Celsius.