Accidents rates increase in winter, so it?sbest to be prepared for all eventualities when taking a car trip away from yourhome.

The first and most important thing toremember is that the cars stopping distance is increased by as much as tentimes the normal distance in wintery conditions. Drivers are urged to drivevery slowly on slippery roads, even if the roads have not been treated, and toallow more time to slow down and to stop. The majority of collisions which takeplace in winter are caused by people not braking in time when the roads are wetor slippery. If it's foggy, raining, snowing or icy, slow down and keep wellback from the vehicle in front.

It's best to also carry an in the boot of your car in case you get stuck in bad weather or deepsnow. Its recommended to carry the following items at all times: an ice scraperand de-icer, a torch, a first aid kit, jumper leads, a plastic snow shovel andan extra warm jacket and a blanket, as well as a pair of boots if you are notwearing waterproof shoes. If you are planning to drive outside of the city, orvillage, then pack food and warm drinks as well. A pair of sunglasses is a goodidea, to protect your eyes from the glare of the winter sun.

When leaving the house make sure you haveyour details with you and also consider taking out a good policyin case you find yourself broken down and trapped in bad weather far from home.