Stay Safe on the Roads This Winter: Essential Driving Tips and Tyre Advice from Allianz Ireland.
Stay Safe on the Roads This Winter: Essential Driving Tips and Tyre Advice from Allianz Ireland.
As temperatures begin to drop and winter conditions set in, Allianz Ireland urges drivers to take extra care on the roads. With most cars in Ireland fitted with summer tyres, many drivers may be unprepared for icy or snowy conditions. Allianz Ireland’s Corporate Communications Lead, Paddy Comyn, highlights the importance of appropriate winter preparation and offers practical advice to help Irish drivers stay safe this season.
Winter Tyre Advice and the Benefits of All-Season Tyres
“All cars for Ireland come with summer tyres, which perform well in milder conditions but aren’t designed for winter driving. In temperatures below 7°C, the rubber in summer tyres hardens, leading to decreased grip and increased stopping distances on icy roads,” says Comyn. In Ireland, the temperature in December, January and February typically hovers between 3°C to 8°C.
“For drivers who regularly face wintery conditions, such as those living on higher ground, switching to winter tyres could significantly improve safety. Winter tyres maintain flexibility and control in colder temperatures, giving drivers greater confidence on icy or snowy roads.”
All-season tyres also provide an alternative, combining summer and winter performance to offer better grip in a variety of conditions. “For urban drivers or those who encounter occasional icy patches, all-season tyres can be a good compromise,” Comyn adds.
Essential Winter Driving Tips
Allianz Ireland offers these tips to help drivers manage winter conditions:
- Dealing with Skids: “If you feel the car starting to skid, try not to panic. Ease off the accelerator and steer gently in the direction of the skid, so steer where you want to go. This helps the tyres regain traction and brings the car back under control. Avoid slamming on the brakes, which can make the situation worse. If your car has ABS brakes, which all modern cars will, you will feel a pulsing under your foot, which is completely normal. Keep steady pressure on the brake pedal if necessary and let the ABS help you stop.”
- Defrosting Your Car Safely: “Never pour hot water on a frozen windscreen – it can cause cracks. Instead, start your engine and use the defrost setting. Invest in a quality scraper and de-icer spray, and lift your wiper blades if frost is expected overnight.”
- Driving Adjustments for Ice and Snow: “Increase your following distance and avoid sudden braking. Use higher gears when pulling away to reduce wheel spin, and remember that stopping distances can be up to 10 times longer on icy roads.”
Why All-Season Tyres Could Make All the Difference
“Ireland may have mild winters compared to other parts of Europe, but we’re still at risk when the temperatures drop,” says Comyn. “Allianz Ireland encourages drivers to consider all-season tyres for improved grip and shorter stopping distances. A few simple adjustments to your tyres and driving habits can make a significant difference in keeping our roads safer for everyone.”
For more tips go to: Winter Driving in Ireland: Here’s Essential Tips and Tyre Advice
