The Great British Weather is unpredictable, we know this can put a strain on your WAV car. From icy B Roads in Somerset to heavy rain, these cold conditions can make driving hazardous and increase the risk of breakdowns. Here’s a reminder of how to keep your WAV in top condition and safely navigate the winter months.
What is the UK Legal Tyre Pressure and Tread Depth? How to measure at home without a depth guage
The UK legal minimum tyre tread depth is 1.6mm for all vehicles. Tyres with less tread depth will have reduced traction, especially on wet or snow-covered roads.
If you don’t own a proper tread depth guage, A 20p coin: The outer band of a 20p coin is approximately 1.6mm thick, which is the legal minimum tread depth in the UK. If you insert a 20p coin into the tread grooves of your tyre and cannot see the outer band of the coin, then your tyre tread depth is above the legal minimum. However, if you can see the outer band of the coin, then your tyre tread depth is below the legal minimum and should be replaced.
Proper tyre pressure is essential for handling, traction, and fuel efficiency. Underinflated tyres can lead to increased wear, reduced fuel economy, and increased risk of aquaplaning. Overinflated tyres can cause handling issues and increase the risk of blowouts. Check all four tyres, including the spare and replace any tyres that are below the legal minimum tread depth. You can also rotate your tyres regularly to ensure even wear.
Charge Up and Conquer: Ensuring Essential Communication in Emergencies
WAV Car Breakdown Preparation and Mobile Phone Charge – Ensuring Essential Communication in Rural Somerset: In the event of a breakdown or accident, it’s important to be prepared.
Did you know? Downloading offline maps and navigation apps for your phone can be a lifesaver. These apps can provide essential directions and information even in areas with limited or no mobile signal. They can be a solid solution if you get lost or need to detour due to unforeseen circumstances.
In the event of a breakdown or any other form of roadside emergency, your phone can be your lifeline. By ensuring it is fully charged, you can quickly contact the emergency services or a roadside assistance provider. Remember, staying connected is key to ensuring your safety and well-being when traversing the serene countryside of Somerset.
Pack a blanket in your boot, long life snacks, food and water, plus one or two torches in your vehicle. These help you help you stay warm and comfortable until help arrives if your engine stops for any reason, like switching off your ignition to save battery on a motorway traffic jam. We know what the M5 is like near the Filton RAC building where several roads merge on the way down to the southwest UK.
Always be prepared for any eventuality, driving around the hills, A and B-roads through remote villages, there may be stretches of road where mobile phone signals are weak or nonexistent. To ensure you remain connected and can summon assistance in case of an emergency, it is crucial to charge your phone fully before embarking on your journey.
A dead iphone, adroid or smartphone can be a cause for significant anxiety when you find yourself stranded in a remote area. Being unable to call for help can delay rescue efforts and put yourself and your passengers at risk. To avoid such a predicament, make sure your phone is fully charged before leaving home. Carry a portable power bank along as well, just in case you need a mid-journey boost.
Safety Tips for Winter Driving of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles around the UK
- Allow extra time for your journeys in winter, and be prepared for delays.
- Drive very cautiously in winter conditions. It’s important to decrease your speed and increase your following distance
- Avoid sudden braking or acceleration, and research the the weather forecast and road conditions in advace
- If you’re driving in snow or ice, use winter tyres or chains.
- If you get stuck, don’t panic. Try to get out of the way of other traffic and wait for help to arrive.
Wiper Blades and Windscreen Washer Fluid Levels
Clean and effective wiper blades are crucial for clear visibility in wet and icy conditions. Replace your wiper blades before the first snowfall to ensure they can effectively remove snow and ice from your windshield.
Make sure your screen wash fluid is at the correct level and that the windscreen washer jets are working properly to keep your windshield clear of debris and ice.
Headlights and Exterior Lights
Check that your headlights, tail lights, brake lights, indicators and fog lights are all working properly. Visibility is reduced in winter, especially when it’s snowing or foggy at night, so it’s important to have all of your lights working to ensure you’re visible to other road users.
Engine Oil and Coolant Level
The engine coolant level should be checked regularly and topped up as needed. Low coolant levels can lead to overheating, which can damage the engine.
