Yahoo News AA lists vital checks all drivers need to make as fog and wintry weather forecast for UK
Drivers are being urged to make some essential checks on their cars ahead of a cold and wintry spell.
The Met Office predicts a "major change" in weather from this weekend that will see wintry conditions sweep much of the UK and bring the potential for snow next week. Temperatures are set to plunge from Sunday, bringing the possibility of snow in several areas, while icy conditions, strong winds and fog could pose hazards.
Now the AA is warning drivers to keep their wits about them, especially if they are driving in fog at night time or early in the morning. The experts say that lighting faults that may have gone unnoticed during the summer months are likely to become more apparent now.
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Motorists are being encouraged to check their cars for any blown bulbs to help them "see and be seen" and stay within the law. They have explained that fog lights are extra front and/or rear lights on some vehicles that are designed to make driving easier in foggy conditions.
Front fog lights are usually white or yellow lights which sit below your headlights and can cut through fog without causing glare. The rear fog light is a red light, similar in brightness to a brake light, on the back of your car which helps other drivers see you.
When fog reduces visibility, the moisture in the fog reflects the light from normal car headlights back, making glare worse. The difference between fog lights and normal headlights is how they cut through fog to reduce glare.
Front fog lights are designed to shine downwards to illuminate the road below any hovering fog - they’re mounted lower down on the car so they can shine underneath the fog. Normal headlights aren't angled downwards in the same way and are mounted higher up on the front of the car.
Automatic (AUTO) lights don’t always switch on in foggy conditions, so it makes sense to check that your front and rear lights are working properly before setting off. If you do need to use your fog lights, remember to switch them off once the fog clears.
Road conditions worsen
With road conditions becoming more treacherous in cold and foggy weather, it’s important to adjust your driving to best suit the road ahead. Last year 1,243 vehicles were involved in collisions due to drivers losing control of their vehicle on slippery roads and excessive speed on slippery roads was a factor in a further 1,213 collisions, the AA points out.
Chris Wood, AA patrol of the year, said: "During late autumn, as well as checking all your lights and tyres (including the spare), it’s very important to maintain clear vision. Top up the windscreen wash with a good quality, purpose-made additive to reduce the chance of freezing. While you’re at it, run your finger down the wiper blades to check for nicks and tears, as they tend to last for two years at the most.
"Also give the windscreen a thorough clean, inside and out, as a layer of grime quickly builds up and you’d be surprised what a difference it makes at reducing dazzle. While there may not be too many fresh flowers around at this time of year, the AA’s handy FLOWER acronym will help drivers remember what to check on their car. FLOWER stands for Fuel, Lights, Oil, Water, Electrics, Rubber.
"If weather warnings are in place, consider whether your trip is essential. If you do need to travel, leave more space between you and the car in front and allow extra time for journeys. Carry a fully charged phone with you and make sure you have enough fuel or electric charge for your journey, factoring in the likelihood of unexpected delays or diversions." More information is available here.
