With icy conditions already gripping the country and snow forecast in parts, motorists, including hauliers, are being urged to take extra care on Irish roads.

Driving in snow and ice requires preparation, patience and practicality to keep all road users safe. Carzone, Ireland’s most trusted motoring marketplace, has compiled essential advice to help drivers navigate hazardous winter conditions.

Conor Faughnan, Independent Motoring Expert at Carzone, commented, “The most important safety feature in weather like this is the driver. You absolutely must slow down, use gentle steering and braking, and stay well back from the car in front. Braking distances in particular are much longer in these conditions so it’s crucial to slow down.”

The ABCs of Driving in Snow and Ice

Awareness
Drive slowly and stay alert to changing road conditions. Manoeuvre gently, avoiding harsh braking or acceleration. Use higher gears where possible to reduce wheel spin and lower gears when travelling downhill. Check weather updates and road conditions before setting off and reconsider journeys where travel is not essential.

Beware of black ice
Black ice often appears as a glossy surface and is especially dangerous in shaded areas, on bridges and on untreated roads. Avoid sudden braking or sharp steering. If the car begins to slide, steer gently in the direction of the slide to regain control.

Be ready to brake
Brake earlier than usual and allow significantly more distance between you and the vehicle in front. Smooth, progressive braking is far more effective than sudden pressure in icy conditions.

Essential winter car checks

Tyres
Ensure tyres have a minimum tread depth of 3mm for winter driving. Check tyre pressures regularly and do not forget the spare tyre if fitted.

Windows and mirrors
Fully clear ice and snow from all windows, mirrors and lights before driving. Never use hot water to de-ice glass as it can cause cracking. Use a scraper or de-icer spray and ensure wipers and washer systems are working correctly.

Lights
Check that all lights are functioning and free from snow or ice. Use dipped headlights in poor visibility to remain visible to other road users.

Safety systems
Familiarise yourself with your vehicle’s safety features, such as electronic stability control. These systems assist the driver but cannot overcome excessive speed or unsafe driving behaviour in winter conditions.

Winter driving tips for EV owners

Cold weather can reduce electric vehicle range and charging efficiency. Carzone advises EV drivers to plan journeys carefully, factoring in a potential range reduction of 15 to 20 percent. Preconditioning the vehicle while plugged in can help warm both the cabin and battery. Using Eco Mode, parking in sheltered areas and charging before the battery drops too low can all help maintain performance in winter conditions.

Prepare for the unexpected

Drivers are advised to carry a winter kit in their vehicle, including an ice scraper and de-icer, a torch with spare batteries, a warm blanket, a first aid kit, a hi-vis jacket and sunglasses to reduce glare from snow and ice.

For more winter driving advice and motoring insights, visit carzone.ie.