Six tips to keep you safe this winter

11th November 2014

Now that the clocks have gone back, it’s important for van drivers to be aware that travelling in the dark requires extra precautions.  The Institute of Advanced Motorists’ tips will help you get through those gloomy mornings and dark nights safely.

• Squeaky clean windows – check that your windscreen and side mirrors are clean before starting a journey.  Visibility is obviously poorer in the dark, so clear your windows of any ice or mist to help you see what’s around you.

• Switch it on – use your headlights so you can see other people on the road and they can see you.  When visibility is poor, use the headlights of the vehicle ahead of you to guide you – it will help you see further ahead.  Check your lights regularly and make sure they are working correctly.

• Beam night – when driving on a road without street lighting, switch your main beam on.  It shows you what’s ahead and will help you to better identify both dangers and opportunities.  However, to avoid dazzling other road users, you should dip your lights.

• Optimal vision driving – if you need to wear glasses while driving, make sure you wear them in the dark and keep a spare pair in your glove compartment.  To ensure your night vision is not affected any further, avoid looking directly at other vehicles’ lights – let their lights guide you to see further ahead.  Simply look to the side of them to see past them, rather than at them.

• Road reflection – reflective road signs and motorway studs are designed to help you drive in poor light.  Use them to help you see ahead and show you the direction of the road.

Finally, keep your distance.  Expect street lights to be switched off in the early hours of the morning and be prepared to increase your stopping distance.  Judging the speed of oncoming vehicles is harder in the dark, so reduce your speed and watch out for dazzle on dark sections of the motorway.