Used car dealerships Northern Ireland wide are set for a busy month, if this applies to you, then make sure you are getting a good deal and staying safe on the roads. Driving is always a dangerous practice, trying to understand the minds of other drivers and trying to predict their next move, of course is nearly impossible.
The winter months bring with them certain extra challenges and with January being extra cold, unfortunately more accidents occur as the roads become glazed with ice and visibility is reduced.
Whether you are driving a new car or a used car, make sure that your vehicle is in good health as we navigate the end of December and the early part of 2022 and if you are in need of used cars NI wide, Carlover have got you covered with Northern Ireland’s top car dealerships there with a huge range of used cars.
Make sure that you are following all of the best practices to stay safe this January:
Don’t Rush, Just Get There
There are so many things to be done, friends to see, meals to make and last minute bits and bobs to grab, but don’t rush. The general good rule of thumb here is to get there late rather than never get there at all.
Always leave yourself more time for your journeys when the conditions on the roads are less than desirable, factor your safety above getting to your destination within a certain window.
Plan Ahead
Where possible, stick to the main roads, even if it might mean a longer journey, often, when you factor in the potential of road blocks, stuck vehicles and icy conditions, the road more travelled is the best option for you, especially if you to unfortunately become stuck yourself, there is more chance of assistance from fellow drivers.
Make sure that you know your route and have the essentials and winter driving is going to be a more enjoyable experience all round.
The Higher Gear
First gear is not the one when it comes to the winter months setting in. With lower gear, unfortunately comes lower control. If you are hoping to keep good control of your vehicle when the road conditions are less than desirable then you want to keep your car in a higher gear. Keep the rev’s low and you will be in a position of optimum control.
Check Your Tyre Health
Tyres aren’t just to be checked for Christmas, but winter really is the time of the year to make sure that your tyres are in good condition. Getting tyres that are season specific is of course an option, but it is often a very expensive practice. Use the 20p tyre test to ensure that the tread on your tyres is enough to allow them to grip to the road enough and keep you safe on your winter car journeys.
Think Twice, Black Ice
Invisible ice, one of the biggest hazards that you can be met with on the roads. Always proceed into any situation on the roads with caution, if you can’t see it there, just presume it is there and prepare for any unexpected movements from your car meeting ice. Do not oversteer and when you hit black ice and do not panic. Take your time and get there safely.
Stuck In The Snow
There can be a sense of panic that sets in when your car is stuck, but it is not necessary. It is always recommended to have a safety shovel in the boot in case of emergency, but if you are not a forward planner, again, no need for panic.
Get your tyres nice and straight and then use your shovel or hands to clear a space around the tyre. You can then position your car mats underneath the tyres and provide yourself with a makeshift way out of the situation.
The Used Cars Belfast Trust
There is alot going on over the winter months, make sure that you follow the steps above, have a great time and keep yourself safe on the roads. Another thing to keep in mind is that the winter months and driving can be hard on the health of your car, so getting a winter checkup is always advised and if the time comes for needing a new vehicle, always consider the advantages of used cars.
Used Car Dealerships Northern Ireland
At Carlover, we have partnered with some of Northern Ireland’s used car dealerships to bring you the very best in used cars – if you are hesitant about buying a used car, then check out our pitfalls to avoid when buying a used car blog.
