These conditions can create some of the most challenging environments to drive in. Even highly experienced drivers can get caught out if their brakes suddenly stop responding or visibility is low.

A single journey in this weather has the potential to leave drivers facing blinding sunlight, falling snow, sudden ice patches or even flooded roads. Should you want to keep up-to-date with the latest weather conditions, there are personal weather stations such as Weather Underground, for instance. You can join and benefit from real-time weather changes that are being recorded by users with sensors all over the globe. This way the idea of “guessing the weather in a certain location” is no longer a thing. This could greatly increase the safety of any future journeys in weather that could easily turn bad.

It’s important to stay alert in these conditions and remember that even if you feel in complete control of your vehicle, other drivers may not be. So, as the temperatures begin to fall again, what can you do to stay safe on the roads? The first, and most obvious step, is to always check the weather forecast before you set out. If the conditions are treacherous then it would be best to avoid driving at all. Remember, no trip is so vital that it is worth taking unnecessary risks for.

However, if you do decide to venture out, LeasePlan UK has a few tips to help drivers stay safe on the roads:

1. Take your time – When driving in snow avoid high revs, but don’t drive so slowly that you risk losing momentum and becoming stranded
2. Skidding – If you do get into a skid in snow or ice, it may seem counter-intuitive, but take your feet off the pedals and steer the vehicle to safety. Only use your brakes when it is not possible to steer your way out of trouble
3. Braking – Triple the normal braking distance and allow enough space to stop slowly, using a low gear earlier than normal and gently applying the brakes
4. Roads – Try and stay on the main roads, as these are more likely to have been gritted and cleared by a steady flow of traffic
5. Control – When setting off, using a higher gear will give you more control over the vehicle and in slippery conditions avoid using first gear if possible
6. Visibility – Before setting off during icy conditions, you might want to consider using Entry for melting ice or snow off your vehicle to ensure that your visibility is as good as possible. Take time to clear your vehicle of snow and ice with de-icer in the morning or throughout the day. If you have to drive in heavy snowfall, use dipped headlights or fog lights, but remember to turn them off when conditions improve. If your headlights don’t seem as bright as they should be, you could also consider purchasing some new bulbs from an online store like xenonsonline
7. Potholes – Potholes are more likely to appear following freezing temperatures and may be difficult to see in snow or flooded areas. Not only can they cause damage to your vehicle, but also temporary loss of control
8. Fog – Fog can quickly appear causing a sudden loss of visibility. If this happens, it’s important to slow down – but don’t just slam on the brakes as this could cause a collision. Gradually reduce your speed, keep your distance and use fog or dipped headlights until conditions improve
9. Flood water – During the winter months and into spring, flood waters can appear as a result of heavy rain or melting snow. Wherever possible, avoid driving directly through the deepest water which is normally near the kerb. Take your time, avoid sudden acceleration and test your brakes a few times before you increase your speed again
10. Be prepared – It may seem a little extreme to carry an emergency kit with you, but winter weather can be unpredictable. Stock up on all your car detailing essentials from somewhere like Detail Central. Pack for every eventuality and ensure you have the following:

• Phone charger
• Warning triangle
• Spade
• Winter boots
• Warm clothing
• Hi-visibility vest
• De-icer and a scraper
• A shovel
• A tow rope
• A torch
• Food and drink