Keith Hawes, of Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, has revealed a simple way to avoid being fined whilst driving in severe weather conditions. It comes after snow warnings were issued in the UK
A car expert has issued a warning over a simple mistake which could cost drivers thousands of pounds.
Keith Hawes, of Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, is urging motorists to demist their windscreens before driving or face fines of up to £2,500. He stressed that drivers could be fined due to disastrous weather and breaking the Highway Code. The specialist explained that all windows must have full visibility, especially during bad spells of weather. His warning comes after areas across the country were plunged under yellow weather warnings for snow and ice.
According to experts at breakdown service, RAC, motorists should use warm air from the system to demist the windows. They explained: “Consider it an essential part of car maintenance that could directly save you money on repair work further down the line. First and foremost using warm air from the system in winter is a great way to demist the windows.
“The air coming out of the vents is dry, so the air-con acts as a dehumidifier. An air-con system is much like the human body – if not used for long periods it can seize up, plus circulation suffers. The air-con is filled with a refrigerant and some oil, and it pays to keep that liquid flowing and the components of the system lubricated.”
The warning comes after the Met Office warned there could be some “significant accumulations” of snow. Brits were also urged to look out for “freezing rain” on the weekend. Chief forecaster Jason Kelly said at the time: “There is a risk of freezing rain across parts of the Midlands and northern England, but especially Wales, adding to the risk of ice and leading to some treacherous conditions in places.
“As the super-cooled rain droplets hit the surface they instantly freeze, covering everything in a layer of ice, making it extremely dangerous.” The weather service also released advice on its website about how to drive safely in the snow. However, Brits should only drive during hazardous weather when absolutely necessary.
How to drive safe in bad weather
- Use dipped headlights
- Accelerate gently
- Starting in second gear will help with wheel slip
- Maintain a safe and steady speed
- Keep a constant speed up hills
- Leave plenty of room between cars
- Use a low gear to go downhill and try to avoid braking unless necessary
- Steer into skids and do not take your hands of the wheel