While we brace for impact for another storm in the Forest already this winter, experts from Ovoko have shared some of their top tips for how to stay safe in your car during this time.

Some of you may be planning a long road trip to see family for Christmas, so be sure to bear these points in mind!

Vytas Palovis, the Vice President of Growth at Ovoko, said: “Driving during winter storms can be challenging, which is why it’s essential that you feel confident and safe on the roads over the next few months.

“Road safety should always be the utmost priority of every driver, particularly as the weather gets colder and the daylight hours begin to decrease. The start of winter can often be associated with a rise in car accidents, which is why every driver must stay vigilant and alert on the roads.

“During severe storms, it’s important to only embark on a long journey when completely necessary. Do not drive in thunderstorms unless your car has a hard-topped metal roof.”

He added: “As winter approaches, it’s more important than ever to carry out regular checks on your car. Before setting out on the roads, ensure that your tires, brakes, and wipers are all in good condition. It’s also important to make sure that you know how to utilise your car’s safety features when driving in bad weather this winter.

“After a journey in heavy rain, it’s important to recognise the signs of water being in your engine, such as identifying a strong smell of petrol or hearing whining-like noises when you attempt to start your vehicle.”

It’s critical to check that your vehicle is working efficiently for every journey. Make sure to check your headlights, brakes, battery levels, and tyre pressure before setting out on the roads.

It may be necessary to consider an alternative route for your journeys, but remember main roads are regularly salted, while country lanes often remain icy, increasing your risk of an accident.

With icy conditions approaching, exceeding the speed limits can greatly increase your risk of a collision, putting yourself and other drivers in danger. Always try to stick to the speed limit, or the recommended speed in the highway code for the conditions.

Driving in icy and cold conditions can often increase your car’s risk of a breakdown, which is why it’s beneficial to ensure that you have an emergency kit stored in your car. Some essential items to include in your emergency kit are water, warm clothes, a high-visibility jacket, a blanket, and a spare phone charger.

It would be wise to carry a spare ice scraper, a can of de-icer, jump start cables, and a torch.

If you look outside and the weather is atrocious - ask yourself if you really need to travel? If the answer is no, then don’t risk it.

Stay safe this winter!