Driving in winter conditions is extremely dangerous, and should only be undertaken by drivers who have had the relevant training and information. It relies on individuals understanding how their vehicles will react in different grip conditions, and upon them recognising changes between conditions. These tips are not intended to replace suitable training and experience, but as a memory refresher prior to the first signs of winter setting in.

Remember that 4×4 systems have their limitations. Larger and heavier vehicles are less stable than small, low and light vehicles. Use their capabilities cautiously, but understand the inherent dangers:

• Engage 4 wheel drive as soon as you anticipate grip being lost. If your vehicle can be switched from 2 to 4 wheel drive, find out how to do this while driving, and engage 4wd prior to problems to ensure the best control in slippery conditions.
• Be aware of ice and black ice – if temperatures are reading below zero, you may encounter ice. At extremely low temperatures (below -10C), grit loses some of its effectiveness
• 4 wheel drive does not improve braking. If your ABS (anti-lock braking system) is activating, then grip is being lost – reduce your speed and brake well in advance of hazards and bends
• Dis-engage 4 wheel drive when good grip is regained. Well gritted and clear roads, without ice, will give good grip (ABS will engage much later when braking). In these situations, dis-engaging the 4 wheel drive system, or unlocking the central differential lock (if this is a driver option – many modern crossover 4x4s will do this for you – know how your vehicle works), will reduce the danger of damaging the transmission system. If you don’t understand how your 4×4 system works – ask, read the vehicle manual, and request training
• Always ensure that you can stop within the distance you can see to be clear. If there’s a chance that there could be a hazard around a corner, or on the approach to a junction, ensure that you can stop if you need to. Remember that on narrow roads, where it is difficult or impossible for vehicles to pass, both you, and the oncoming vehicle, will need to stop in half the distance you can see to be clear
• Only change speed in a straight line. Braking in a straight line, will give you much more control of the vehicle. However, many drivers forget that in snow and ice conditions, acceleration can lead to loss of grip (wheelspin) – in these situations, having the vehicle in a straight line will allow you to ease off the throttle to reduce wheelspin, and will minimise the likelihood of losing steering and positional control of the vehicle.
• Reduce speed prior to hazards, junctions and bends. Braking on bends, or while steering is a sure way of ending up in a spin, or in a drift, which could put you in danger from coming off the road, or put you in the path of other vehicles.
• Leave acceleration until past hazards, junctions and bends. Speeding up while steering can lead to spins (especially in rear wheel drive vehicles, like pick-ups and other part-time 4x4s), or drifting wide (especially in front wheel drive vehicles, but also in vehicles operating in 4 wheel drive mode).
• Give other drivers space. Many other drivers on the road will have less experience, less capable vehicles, and less training in how to deal with bad weather conditions. Allowing yourself more space will give you more time to react if they lose control of their vehicle. Ice and snow can lead to braking distances 10 times longer than normal.
• Be aware of condition changes, for example:
  • Under and on top of bridges
  • On exposed hillsides
  • In shaded valleys
  • As weather worsens
  • Temperature drops, especially as evening approaches

Remember that you are responsible for your own safety, but that you have access to information, equipment, training and above all, help, at all times.

For more information on winter driving in 4x4s, consider undertaking our 4×4 Familiarisation course, or contact us.