Top Tips for Winter Driving: Staying Safe in Ice, Snow, and Fog

Irish winters might not always bring deep snowdrifts, but between freezing mornings, icy backroads, and sudden fog, driving conditions can become tricky very quickly. Whether you’re commuting to work, heading on the school run, or making a cross-country trip, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are our top five tips for staying safe on Irish roads this winter.

Get your car winter-ready

Before you even turn the key, make sure your car is ready for the season. Check your tyres, Irish roads can be especially slippery in frost and it’s important to ensure they have at least 3mm of tread and are properly inflated. Top up your screen wash and keep de-icer handy, as grit and road salt can make windscreens dirty in seconds; use a winter-grade washer fluid that won’t freeze in low temperatures. Check your battery health too, since cold, damp weather can drain it faster, and if it’s over three years old, have it tested. Lastly, refill your emergency car kit with essentials like a torch, blanket, hi-vis vest, ice scraper, de-icer spray, phone charger, and a bottle of water. If you live in a rural area, a shovel and some sand or cat litter for traction can also be lifesavers. Finally, always remember that car insurance is necessary for any and all journeys – no matter the weather.

Take it slow on icy mornings

Irish backroads and shaded areas often hide black ice, especially after a cold night or early morning frost. To stay safe, ease off the accelerator, sudden movements can cause you to lose control. Brake gently, apply pressure smoothly and early, and always keep your distance from the car in front, leaving at least ten times the usual gap between you and the car ahead. If you do start to skid, don’t slam on the brakes; instead, steer gently in the direction of the skid until your tyres regain grip.

Dealing with snow and sleet

While we don’t often see heavy snow in Ireland, even a small amount can cause chaos on untreated roads. To stay safe, make sure your car is completely clear before setting off, it’s dangerous to drive with snow on your roof or windows. When pulling away, start in second gear to reduce wheel spin, and try to stick to main routes such as motorways and national roads, as these are more likely to be gritted than smaller local roads. Finally, avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather; if Met Éireann issues an orange or red warning, it’s safest to stay put whenever possible. 

Driving safely in fog

Fog is common across Ireland, particularly in valleys and coastal areas. Make sure you use fog lights properly, turning them on only when visibility drops below 100 metres, and remember to switch them off once conditions improve. Keep your main lights on low beam, as full beams will reflect off the fog and reduce visibility. Don’t tailgate; maintain a large gap between you and the car ahead and use the left-hand side of the road as a guide if visibility is poor. 

Plan ahead and stay updated

It’s also important to plan ahead and stay updated. Check forecasts regularly and keep an eye on Met Éireann for the latest weather warnings and road conditions. Allow extra time for journeys, as winter conditions can slow travel, and rushing only increases risk. If you’re travelling in rural or remote areas where mobile coverage might be patchy, let someone know your route.

Winter driving is all about patience, preparation, and caution. Our weather can change in an instant, and roads can turn treacherous overnight. So slow down, stay alert, and give yourself the best chance of arriving safely. Wherever you’re headed, remember, it’s better to be five minutes late than not to arrive at all.