Are you warmed up for winter?
Posted by Fiona Birkwood
The cold weather has well and truly set in for the long haul in the UK and it's only a matter of time before motorists are beginning their daily winter battle with the ice that encases their vehicle overnight.
It catches all of us out on that first frosty morning, particularly when we are running late anyway as the dark morning make you stay in bed that little bit longer, but it is important to fully clear your car of ice, not matter how tempting it is to create a porthole to see out of.
Ford has urged motorists to "warm up for winter" and manage all aspects of car maintenance and the preparation for driving in cold and icy conditions.
Stuart Southgate, Ford's automotive safety office director, said: "Being able to clearly see where you are driving is perhaps the most obvious and basic safety requirement for motorists."
He explained that failing to properly clear windscreens can have serious consequences for drivers, pedestrians and other road users as it dramatically reduces visibility and increases the likelihood of an accident.
It is also an offence not to fully clear your windscreen.
An Essex police spokesperson said: "Failing to clear your windscreen of ice or frost constitutes careless driving, and would be punishable with points on your licence and a fine. The exact penalty is dependent on the circumstances and severity of the offence committed, and would be decided in a criminal court."
With the mercury dropping below zero it is also tempting to start your car and return to the warmth of your home while it defrosts. However, this plays into the hands of opportunist thieves – or frostjackers – who will jump into the car and drive away.
While this is frustrating, that feeling is nothing compared to the shock you will get when your insurer tells you that by leaving the car unattended you invalidated your insurance.
So make sure you are prepared this year.
