Posted on November 28, 2008 by Fiona Hilliard

On officially the coldest day of the year (brrrrrrrrrr!) we thought we’d bring you some tips about safer driving this winter.  This advice should come in especially useful if you’ve booked ski car hire or you’re planning a snowy adventure in Europe.

1. Slow Down

Slowing down is one of the easiest ways to make your driving safer during the winter months.  With the extra stress associated with Christmas, it’s tempting to reach for the accelerator.  But cool your jets…speeding is seriously dangerous at any time of the year.  Add rain, ice and oil from the road surface into the mix and you’ve got a disaster waiting to happen.

2. Switch on Your Lights

Next to slowing down, this is one of the simplest things you can do to stay safe on the roads over the winter months.  Studies have revealed that driving with your lights on increases the chance of another driver seeing you in fog, heavy rain or snow and helps you avoid an accident. 

3. Brake Slowly

Never slam on the brakes while driving in ice, rain or snow.  Hitting the breaks suddenly will cause your tyres to lose traction and send your car sliding all over the road.  If you’re holidaying in the mountains or where there’s been heavy snow, make sure your rental car has been equipped with snow tyres. You may also need snow chains, depending on local laws.  Check with your supplier before hitting the road.

4. SUV or Smart Car Be Careful!

Some renters believe they will be safer if they drive a bigger car.  It’s easy for you to think that you’ll be safe weaving  through lanes recklessly because you’re driving a bigger car but you must realise that your car is also heavier and if something goes wrong it will cause a much bigger accident.  The bigger the car, the more difficult it is to handle and it may cause a bigger accident, especially when driving in tricky weather conditions. 

5. Check and re-check your tyres

Before you leave the pick-up depot, make sure to check your tyres. During wintertime, tyres are especially important for keeping you in control of your car. Ensure that your car has been supplied with the right tyres and ask whether snow chains are necessary.  In some European countries you may be required to carry other equipment including a high visibility jacket, warning triangle or first aid kit.  Please check with your supplier for conditions.