With temperatures set to plummet this week, National Windscreens is urging customers to be extra vigilant when driving. Freezing conditions often damage roads, creating potholes and loose stones, leading to windscreen chips. National Windscreens warns drivers to get small chips repaired quickly, as the low temperature increases the likelihood of this damage turning into a crack and the need for a windscreen replacement.
Remember, if a windscreen needs replacing and your vehicle has Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) fitted, the ADAS camera must be calibrated to ensure these safety systems continue to work as intended. Getting a chip in the windscreen repaired can be up to 10 times less expensive than replacement and calibration combined, so act promptly to save time and money.
National Windscreens has extensive experience in getting vehicles back on the road in record time during the winter season and offers a one stop service for windscreen replacement and ADAS calibration at all of its 108 fitting and calibration centres. If in doubt, remember they also offer a free windscreen inspection service.
Adverse conditions can also present various other challenges and as a result could lead to an increase in road traffic accidents. However, making sure your car is in the best possible condition is the best way to avoid any threats.
Fail to prepare, prepare to fail
National Windscreens advise having your car checked before the winter weather kicks in, but if you’re doing it yourself, it’s vital you know which components must be checked.
Driving without full visibility is both illegal and dangerous, for you and other drivers. De-icing correctly and checking your washer is topped up ensures a clean, clear windscreen and windows, which subsequently helps visibility. Wiper blades should also be clean, to prevent any debris from scratching the glass and causing danger. Make sure your lights are working also, this way oncoming traffic will be aware you’re on the road too.
As temperature drops, so does the pressure in your tyres, so make sure they’re at the correct pressure and the tread depth is adequate. Know your brakes, as floods can affect their ability to function correctly; check them frequently and tap them when safe to do so to check they are working correctly. Ensure all liquids are topped up, including anti-freeze, oil and fuel; low fuel levels can create fuel line freeze-up.
Tips for ice and snow
Diverse conditions require you to adapt your driving. Snow alerts are dominating the news, so know how to control your car in such treacherous conditions. Speed must be reduced significantly, but ensuring you do so in a smooth manner; harsh braking and acceleration can be incredibly dangerous.
Winter emergency kit
If you’re stranded on the roadside it’s better to be prepared, as you never know how long you may be there for. Pack your boot full of essentials including: a shovel, de-icing equipment, a first aid kit, a torch, jump leads and a mobile phone charger. Warm clothes, a blanket and plenty of food and drink are vital too.