NHS staff often need to drive in challenging conditions to provide essential care, regardless of the weather.
Winter in particular brings additional hazards on the road, making safe driving a priority for anyone travelling to a hospital, clinic or patient’s home during the colder months.
1. Check the vehicle regularly
Before setting out, it is worth checking that a vehicle is in good working condition, paying particular attention to tyres, brakes, lights and the battery.
Cold weather can make existing faults worse, so a well-maintained vehicle becomes more important during winter.
2. Consider winter tyres
Winter tyres provide better traction on icy or snowy roads and can noticeably improve a vehicle’s ability to manoeuvre safely in poor conditions.
3. Plan the route in advance
Planning a route carefully, factoring in weather conditions, traffic and potential road closures, reduces the chance of unexpected delays.
Sharing the planned route with colleagues or family members is a sensible precaution in case of a breakdown or other delay.
4. Carry emergency supplies
Keeping an emergency kit in the vehicle is worthwhile, including a torch, blankets, a first-aid kit, non-perishable snacks and extra warm clothing.
A fully charged mobile phone and a power bank are also useful additions in case of an emergency.
5. Drive slowly and cautiously
Reducing speed in adverse weather gives more time to react to sudden changes in road conditions.
Braking and accelerating gently helps to avoid skidding on icy or wet surfaces.
6. Increase following distance
Maintaining a larger gap from the vehicle ahead provides a buffer in case of sudden stops, since stopping distances increase significantly on icy or snowy roads.
7. Use proper lighting
Keeping headlights on, even during daylight hours, improves visibility to other road users in poor winter conditions.
Making sure all lights are clean and in working order is a quick check worth doing regularly.
8. Watch for black ice
Black ice can be deceptive, often appearing as a simple wet patch on the road.
Extra caution is worth taking on bridges, overpasses and shaded areas, since these are more prone to black ice forming.
9. Warm up the vehicle
Giving a vehicle a few extra minutes to warm up allows the engine and demisting systems to work properly, helping to ensure clear visibility before setting off.
10. Keep car insurance up to date
Car insurance is a legal requirement, and with icier roads during winter it becomes particularly important to keep a vehicle properly maintained and insured.
The NHS Discount Car Insurance comparison page lists current savings available to NHS staff.
Bonus tip: carpool or use public transport
Carpooling with colleagues or using public transport where feasible reduces the number of vehicles on the road, which can help lower the risk of traffic-related incidents during severe weather.
Careful preparation and cautious driving allow NHS staff to continue providing essential healthcare services through the winter while keeping themselves and other road users safe.
Further driving and insurance guides for NHS staff are covered in the blog section of this site.
