Davanti Tyres’ guide to driving in the dark

If you live in the UK, during the winter, days can feel long, dark and gloomy. With the shortest day of the year only seeing around 7 full hours of daylight, for a few months of the year, driving in the dark is often more common than in the light of the day.

The reduced visibility that we are faced with means that extra precautions are needed whilst driving to ensure those hitting the roads are cautious and prepared.

So that you feel equipped to drive in the dark, here at Davanti Tyres we’ve summarised the key things to remember to keep you and others safe while driving this winter:

Ensure you are well-rested

Firstly, ensure you are well rested before a long journey, particularly if heading out later on in the day. Driving tired makes you a danger to yourself and those around you. So, if you start to feel tired, ensure you find a place safe to stop, take a break and even have a coffee. Driving in the dark means being extra alert, so the more well-rested you are, the more responsive you’ll feel, minimising the risk of any accidents.

Drive with potholes and other obstructions in mind

Driving in the dark means that obstructions in the road can be harder to spot, so ensure you’re driving within the speed limit, particularly in poorly lit areas and be aware of the potential for hitting potholes, as striking one at high speed can cause serious damage to your tyres. Stay vigilant to ensure your safety on the road.

Vehicle checks

Make sure all your vehicle’s lights are working properly and ensure you know how to activate your full beam when necessary, particularly when driving in rural areas. If you are struggling with your visibility whilst driving in the dark, your car bulbs may simply need changing, so ensure everything is in working order before hitting the road.

Additionally, ensuring your windscreens and windows are clean can make a huge difference whilst driving in the dark, especially in winter when gritters have been out and salt and spray from other vehicles can impinge on your visibility. A dirty windscreen can amplify glare, making it trickier to see clearly what is in front of you.

And don’t forget…

• If conditions are bad you should consider whether your journey is really necessary and if in doubt don’t travel.
• Be prepared and carry a survival pack in your car, including food, water, a blanket and warm clothes. Also keep a shovel in your boot, just in case.
• Keep your phone fully charged and carry a battery bank or charger.
• If possible fit winter tyres, otherwise, have your summer tyres checked before winter descends to ensure that you have the maximum grip and traction as the weather is so interchangeable.
  Check your battery – in cold weather batteries are under extra pressure and are more likely to fail.

Of course, driving with the right tyre will help with safety, performance, fuel efficiency and comfort this winter, too. With a wide range of tyres designed to suit different vehicles, conditions, and surfaces, Davanti can provide drivers with confidence, no matter the weather. Find out more here.