M&S Car Insurance advises drivers to check cars before driving

M&S Premier Car Insurance has advised motorists to check their cars and be prepared before getting back into their vehicles as the freezing conditions continue to hit much of the UK.

David Wells, M&S head of insurance said, “Motorists living in areas where roads are icy should heed police advice and not make unnecessary journeys. Before getting back into your vehicle clear all snow and ice, making sure that you have clear visibility. Also ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy, including checking the tyre conditions and that all lights are working.”

Wells said that many cars have been left unused for the past weeks because most of them were blocked in by the heavy snow which has swept across the country.

The insurance firm is offering the following tips when driving in wintery conditions: Check your anti-freeze levels, carry some de-icer and an ice scraper; Check the tread and pressures of tyres and make sure lights and wipers are in good working order; Top-up windscreen washer fluid and use a mixture containing de-icer; Prepare an emergency kit for your car, in case of delays – including a torch, fully charged mobile phone, blanket/sleeping bag, warning triangle, tow rope, sat-nav or map (in case of diversions) first-aid kit, hot water bottle, a shovel, snacks and a flask containing a hot drink; and Allow more time for journeys and only travel if absolutely necessary.

And once you are already on the road, follow these simple tips: Make sure there’s plenty of space between your vehicle and the one in front; Always look as far ahead as possible while driving, to give plenty of time to spot hazards; Adjust driving to suit weather conditions and slippery roads: avoid sudden turns of the steering wheel, sudden braking or accelerating – as this could result in skidding; Avoid distractions like eating or drinking, changing radio stations, disruptive passengers, and talking on mobile phones; Try eating or drinking before you leave or stop off en route and eat somewhere; Plan your journey to include a 15-minute break every two hours; Don’t start a long trip if you’re already tired; and Remember the risks if you have to get up unusually early to start a long drive.