Top Tips for Safe Winter Driving - John Lewis Insurance

LONDON, December 17, 2010 - With lower temperatures, rain, fog and snow, driving in winter can become
extra challenging. And your car can be even more affected by cold
temperatures than you are.

Follow these tips to help minimise the risk of breakdown or accident in
different winter driving conditions.

Reduced visibility:

    - Check your battery. Driving in winter means less daylight. You'll use
      the lights and heating much more, which drains the battery.

    - Other conditions affect your visibility, like snow, sleet or rain mixed
      with dirt stuck on the windscreen. Rather than clearing just a small
      area, carefully clean everywhere: driving requires good peripheral
      vision and being aware of every other road user is vital.

    - Cleaning your headlights can improve visibility. Dirt often forms a
      thick film which reduces their effectiveness. It also means that others
      can't see you as clearly.

    - Inspect your windscreen wiper blades. Even when it's not raining, the
      vehicles in front of you often spray back enough dirty water to make
      cleaning the windscreen necessary. If your wipers are old, you can
      replace them with new winter wipers which prevent ice from collecting
      on the blade.

    Low temperatures:

    - Check your tyre pressure: this is never a fun chore, but ensuring your
      tyres are properly inflated during winter is important as tyre
      pressure drops as temperatures do. Low pressured tyres will leave your
      car difficult to handle.

    - Using antifreeze regularly can help fight the effects of bad weather.
      It lowers the freezing point of water to ensure that your engine
      doesn't freeze in cold weather. However, you should always ensure that
      you have antifreeze mixed with water at a 50-50 ratio and if you're
      unsure about how to use it, consult your local mechanic.

    - As temperatures drop, condensation becomes a problem, especially on
      your rear window. Make sure the rear defroster works before going on a
      long trip.

    Snow, sleet and rain:

    - When your car is covered in snow, many people only clear the windscreen
      and side mirrors, but it's important to clean the whole car. Snow on
      the roof, for example, can slide and cover your windscreen as you
      brake, or fly onto the windscreen of the car behind.

    - When there is sleet, snow or just heavy rain, you consume large amounts
      of washer fluid. During winter, keep extra fluid in the boot in case
      you run out, and add a small amount of antifreeze during the winter.

    - If the area where you live suffers from regular snow then consider tyre
      chains. Chains are a lightweight and effective tool when snow has
      covered the roads. However, if you don't know how to use them properly
      chains can become undone and scratch or even dent your car.

    - A first aid kit, high-visibility vests, de-icing equipment, a torch and
      blanket are all essential items for your boot.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can greatly reduce the likelihood of
an accident or breakdown during winter. However, accidents and breakdowns do
happen and the best way to get peace of mind is by having comprehensive car
insurance from a trusted provider.

John Lewis Insurance (www.johnlewis-insurance.com/) offers
competitively-priced car insurance that you can trust. Emergency Taxi Cover,
Misfuelling cover and with our Comprehensive cover, a free Courtesy Car for
the duration of repairs should you have an accident, means you'll have peace
of mind knowing that you're protected should the worst happen.

Find out more about how John Lewis Car Insurance (
www.johnlewis-insurance.com/homepage/car-insurance.html) is with you
when it matters.

About John Lewis Insurance:

John Lewis Insurance offers a range of insurance services selected by the
John Lewis Partnership. These include home, life, travel, pet, event, wedding
and car insurance products. Customer can visit
www.johnlewis-insurance.com for further information.

Contact Details:

Email: customerservice@johnlewis-insurance.com

Tel: +44(0)207-592-5236

Contact Details: Email: customerservice at johnlewis-insurance.com, Tel: +44(0)207-592-5236