Car Tips and Tricks
Road safety: advice for a chill-free winter
In winter, the road demands extra attention. But if you know the main dangers, prepare your car for this season and adopt road safety practices - both your own and those of others - we guarantee that everything will run smoothly. Bundle up warmly and discover the best tips for a worry-free winter with Xtracars.
The main road hazards in winter
Ice
Because the grip of the wheels on ice is minimal, the braking distance increases considerably, and thoughtless movement is enough for the car to start skidding. Drive with extra care to avoid this.
Snow
Everyone loves snowy landscapes, but no one likes unpleasant surprises. Be careful with freshly fallen snow, as it can hide numerous obstacles and dangers and compromise road safety.
Snow rain
When snow begins to melt, a layer of dirt, snow and water forms between the tire tread and the road. And when the tire loses contact with the road surface, the car becomes unable to brake, accelerate and maneuver.
Poor visibility
You've probably had your car windows fog up and freeze due to snow, cold and temperature changes. This makes it harder to see and assess the driving situation safely and even identify traffic signs.
Low temperature
When it gets colder, the rubber on the tires becomes harder, compromising their grip. This makes the contact between the wheels and the road less secure, and the braking distance increases considerably.
Preparing the car for a safe winter
Winter doesn't mean a car parked in the garage. But before you set off on your journey, make sure your vehicle is well prepared to ensure maximum road safety. Check things like the cooling system, antifreeze levels (including the level added to windscreen washer fluid) and engine oil and brake fluid levels.
Also make sure that your tires are worn evenly and that they grip slippery surfaces properly. It is also essential to check your brakes, headlights and windshield wipers.
Driving practices for greater road safety
Weather (and road) conditions
Before you get in the car, grab your smartphone and check the weather and all the roads on your route are passable.
Fuel or battery
Nobody wants to be stuck on the road because they don't have fuel or because there is no way of getting to a petrol station, especially in winter. Just in case, fill up your tank. If you choose an electric vehicle don't forget to keep it charged at all times. To make sure you don't miss anything, find out all about charging electric vehicles.
Appropriate clothing
It may be cold, but when driving avoid wearing bulky winter clothing, as it will hinder your movements and may prevent your seat belt from being securely fastened. Choose lighter clothing and use the air conditioning to maintain a comfortable interior temperature.
Seat belt
Everyone knows how important it is to wear a seat belt for road safety. But on ice and snow, it is even more important, as a lack of grip can lead to loss of control of the vehicle and the driver being thrown inside, which can cause serious injuries.
Driving
Adapt driving to the weather conditions: reduce your speed and take gentle turns to reduce the chance of losing control of your car. Brake early before traffic lights and intersections and increase the safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.
Snow chains or tires
Driving on mountain roads or snowy or icy roads requires special care (including from a legal point of view). Fit your vehicle's tires with snow chains and then all you have to do is enjoy the scenery.
Fog lights
When it's foggy, turning on your fog lights has two major advantages for road safety: you can see the road better and you can be seen by other cars even from a distance.
Pay attention to other drivers
You can never be too careful on the road, so pay attention to the maneuvers of other drivers: if the person behind you is not keeping a safe distance, let them overtake and avoid overtaking large vehicles when visibility is not enough.
Roadside assistance
Still, in the unlikely event that something happens, it's good to know that when you subscribe to a car with Xtracars you can count on Top Roadside Assistance, which guarantees you services such as towing, repairs and support in case of emergency.
With Xtracars, it's easy to subscribe to a car at any season
Come rain or shine, use Xtracars monthly car rental Portugal and discover the easiest and most comfortable way to hire a car. You can place your order 100% online, you have several cars to hire, fast delivery at 36 branches, periods of use from 1 to 12 months and a fixed monthly fee from the beginning to the end of the contract. All this without having to worry about servicing, maintenance, IUC and much more. You can make your trip even more hassle-free by simply including the complementary TOP Travel Assistance product, you won't have to pay for towing or on-site assistance, and you won't have to pay in the event of forgetting or losing your car key. What are you waiting for to start your trip?