Slippery when wet

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22 September 2011              

This week IAM Drive & Survive head of training Simon Elstow gives motorists advice on maintaining their cars during the autumn period.

 

·         Clear out plenum chambers – the tray-like area under the bonnet, below the windscreen. This can fill up with water when it gets blocked with leaves. This water can seep into the car’s electrics, causing expensive and potentially dangerous damage.

·         A patch of wet leaves can be as dangerous as hitting standing water – take care and reduce your speed before driving onto them.

·         In cold weather, clear windscreens of condensation or ice before setting off. Always give yourself extra time, to ensure visibility is at an optimum before starting your journey.

·         Make sure your wiper blades are in good condition. If they squeak as they wipe, they probably need replacing, and always make sure they are turned off before starting the ignition to save the blades and the risk of a blown motor fuse when the first frost hits.

·         Autumn can also take its toll on car batteries – keep the top of the battery clean and dry and make sure the terminals are tight and free from corrosion.

·         If a battery is more than three years old, check it now; you might save yourself many a frustrating start to a morning.

 

Elstow said: “Bear in mind that leaves can be slippery, especially when wet. Avoid hard acceleration or braking as it can cause skidding. And be aware that there may be a dip, pothole or other road hazard hiding under those leaves covering the road.”

 

 

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Notes to editors:

  1. IAM Drive & Survive is a commercial subsidiary of the IAM and promotes occupational driver skills and safety for vehicle fleets businesses. IAM Drive & Survive helps employers achieve their duty of care to employees and reduce road accidents while driving on business. The IAM is the UK’s largest independent road safety charity, dedicated to improving standards and safety in driving, motorcycle riding and cycling.  The IAM has more than 100,000 members in the UK and Ireland. It is best known for the advanced driving test and the advanced driving, motorcycling and cycling courses.  Our policy and research division offers advice and expertise on road safety.

 

Note to the editor:

1.     For information about IAM Drive & Survive phone 0870 120 2910 or visit http://www.iamdriveandsurvive.co.uk

 

Media contacts:

IAM Drive and Survive Press Office – 020 8996 9777

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iam.org.uk

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