As we start heading into colder weather... its important to remember how this affects your travels and road safety.
Road conditions can change quickly, and when they do, your tyres are the most important connection between your vehicle and the road. Wet surfaces, ice, snow, and reduced visibility all place extra demands on your tyres, so driving to the conditions and making sure your tyres are in good shape is essential for staying safe.
Slow Down and Drive Smoothly
In icy or snowy conditions, tyres have less grip. Reducing your speed gives your tyres more time to respond and helps prevent skidding or loss of control. Smooth inputs are key—avoid sudden braking or sharp steering movements, which can easily cause your tyres to slide on slippery roads.
Check Your Tyres Before You Go
Good winter driving starts before you even turn the key. Make sure your tyres have adequate tread depth, as this helps clear water and improves traction on wet and slippery surfaces. Worn tyres significantly increase stopping distances in winter weather.
It’s also important to check tyre pressure regularly. Cold temperatures can cause pressure to drop, which affects handling, braking, and overall stability. Keeping tyres inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels helps them perform as they should in challenging conditions.
Increase Following Distance and Visibility
Even with good tyres, stopping takes longer on wet, icy, or snowy roads. Increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front to give your tyres enough space to slow you down safely.
Visibility is just as important. Use your headlights in rain, fog, snow, or low-light conditions so other drivers can see you and better anticipate your movements. If your vehicle has automatic headlights, remember they may not switch on during the day—turn them on manually when visibility is poor.
Plan Ahead and Respect Road Conditions
Always check weather and road conditions before heading out, especially as it gets darker and conditions worsen. Roads may be proactively closed to keep people safe, and it’s illegal—and dangerous—to drive through a closed road. No tyre can overcome unsafe or closed road conditions.
Be prepared for delays during winter travel and allow extra time for your journey. Driving patiently reduces stress on your tyres and helps maintain traction and control.
Take Extra Care on Longer Trips
If you’re travelling long distances, make sure you’re well rested, take regular breaks, and share the driving where possible. Fatigue slows reaction times, and in winter conditions, your tyres rely on calm, controlled driving to perform at their best.
Before and during your journey, check traffic and travel updates on regional Facebook pages or the Journey Planner so you can adjust your plans if conditions change.
Ref: NZTA.GOVT.NZ