Autumn has arrived and as the nights draw in and temperatures drop, it's not just your wardrobe that may need an update. Motorists are also being urged to make sure that their vehicle is prepared for the colder months.
National Highways has warned that motorists should be ready for the autumn and winter seasons. They have also provided a checklist of things to get on top of.
Andy Butterfield, customer services director for operations at National Highways says: "To keep safe when travelling, it's important to adjust the way you drive and prepare for travelling in different and changing weather situations. It’s always a good idea to plan your journey in advance."
1. Carry out a routine check
When you've got 20 minutes spare, nip out to your vehicle and do a routine check. Ensure that your tyres are inflated to the correct air pressure, and head to a garage or petrol station to top them up if needed.
The autumn months can prove problematic for drivers when glare from the sun could be an issue or when daytime drivers will need to use their headlights and fog lights for the first time in months. Familiarise yourself with your car's controls to ensure that you know how to turn on and off your fog lights and hazard lights.
As the weather turns wetter, car wipers will be crucial during journeys, so replace your wiper blades if necessary and top up your screen wash. With the potential for ice and frost, anti-freeze will be important, a mechanic can top this up if you're running low.
You should also check that your battery is in good working order as damp conditions can have an adverse effect on its performance.
2. Pack some essentials
Breakdowns and delays happen to all of us at some point, so make these setbacks slightly easier by having a pre-prepared kit of essentials to hand should you need them. Pack a backpack or bag with a change of warm clothes, a change of socks and shoes, a few bottles of water and some food, but ensure that it isn't the type to spoil, so opt for things like energy bars.
It is also a good idea to pick up a first aid kit, a high-visibility jacket or vest, a shovel, maps and a torch with spare batteries. If you break down during the height of winter, a spare ice scraper and extra de-icer could make all the difference.
The RAC recommends you also pack a supply for your car that includes jump start cables, an empty fuel can and a reflective warning sign. You'll need to stay connected too, so invest in an in-car phone charger and portable battery charger, just in case.
3. Watch the weather
Andy Butterfield says: “The transition from summer to autumn brings changing road conditions and we all need to be aware of this and adapt accordingly. Weather conditions vary considerably throughout the year and sometimes change very quickly."
Ground frost on the road reduces traction, so reduce your speed and avoid hard braking or abrupt acceleration. Meanwhile, frost on your windscreen must be cleared to give you full visibility, so keep de-icer in the car, allow more time before your journey to clear it, or keep a sheet on the windscreen overnight as it gets colder.
With extra rainfall, there is also the hazard of fallen leaves on wet, slippery and frosty roads which can cause a skid hazard. During severe weather events, drivers are advised to follow messages on the overhead signs and listen to radio updates.
A spokesperson for the Met Office said: "As we move through autumn, the weather tends to be wetter and windier more often, making travel disruption more likely. To stay safe, it’s important to use the time when the weather is good to make sure you are prepared and your vehicle is ready for autumn and winter travel.
"Keep up-to-date with the forecast, especially in times of severe weather. Be aware of any weather warnings and follow any local advice."
