Motoring News

Tyre retailer ProTyre has urged drivers not to fall for the myth that you should reduce your tyre pressure to drive more safely in the snow.

The company stressed that “this can be both illegal and dangerous”. It recommends that all tyre pressures should be maintained according to the manufacturer’s recommended pressures, which must be stipulated in the vehicle’s handbook.

5 Top Tips for driving in snowy conditions

• Always apply your brakes gently. Release them and de-clutch if the car skids.
• It is good practice to drive in as high a gear as possible to avoid unnecessary wheel-spin.
• When a car does get into a slide, don’t forget to keep off the brake, clutch and the accelerator until the vehicle is back under control.
• To prevent skidding, choose third or fourth gear when driving downhill.
• Keep to main roads as they are more likely to be gritted and will be patrolled by police.

Stuck in snow?

• Whatever you do, don’t continue to spin your wheels; you’ll just find yourself in a deeper rut. It is worth noting that excessively spinning the wheels can result in damage to the tyres. In a worst-case scenario, wheel-spinning can cause a tyre to burst.
• If possible, pour sand, salt or gravel around the drive wheels to give them something to grab onto and improve traction.
• Put an old rug/carpet in front of the driving wheels – again, this will give the tyres something to grip onto.
• To clear a pathway, shovel snow away from the wheels and out from under the car.

If you think you have anymore valuable tips for driving in winter conditions, please let us know. We’d love to hear your comments.

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