Expert offers winter driving tips

16/01/12

By Shane Gladstone

Most of us are looking forward to seeing the back of dark nights, but they haven't gone yet.

With a good few weeks of wintry evenings to come, IAM Drive & Survive has offered a series of tips to help us get from A to B safely when driving in the dark.

Head of training Simon Elstow advises motorists to make sure their windscreen and lights are clean before getting behind the wheel - things which may sound simple but are easy to forget.

People were also urged to drive with their headlights at full power, except when another car is approaching. However, he urged caution over the use of fog lights, saying that the rear ones' similarity to brake lights can cause confusion.

Only use them when visibility is below 100 metres, was his advice. He also reaffirmed ongoing advice about the effect of tiredness, urging people to take regular breaks.

Mr Elstow said: "The risk of fatal accidents increases in the dark as visibility is reduced. Have regular eye examinations to ensure you are wearing glasses or contact lenses if you need to."