Fit for the winter: The winter check for car drivers

Do not wear thick winter coats while driving. Thick clothing restricts the effect of the seat belt because it is no longer right next to the body. This also applies to children in child seats. Aligned systems, such as airbags, seatbelt tensioners and seatbelt force limiters can only offer optimum protection if the seat belt is worn correctly.

The car on the other hand should be well equipped in winter: Winter tires fitted, snow chains, ice scrapers, gloves, winter shoes, jumper leads, a tow rope, torch, deicer, sufficient high-visibility clothing and a broom. A blanket or a winter coat have to be there too: If you breakdown, the waiting times can be very long in winter and when it is cold, it is better to have something warm that you can put on.

When it comes to tires, it is best to stick to the 4x4x4 and the October to Easter rule: Install four identical tires that are the same age, but no older than 4 years old, as well as a minimum profile of four millimeters. And always from October to Easter. Even with temperatures below seven degrees, winter tires can offer more safety.

On slippery or snowy streets, it is important to slow down, not brake too sharply and steer smoothly. That way, you won’t end up skidding as quickly. Abrupt braking and steering maneuvers should be avoided whenever possible.

When starting up in the snow, engage second gear and accelerate cautiously so that the wheels do not lurch or spin. Generally, you will move through slippery streets better if you drive in your motor's lower speed range.

If the wheels are still slipping, shift to a higher gear immediately. This means that less power will be transferred into the wheels and it will be easier to stabilize your car. Modern vehicles support you with modern aides in this situation. Ask your local mechanic for advice.

Before setting off, all windows, lights and the number plate must be cleared of any snow or ice. It is also important that the windows are clean from the inside as well. Beware: It is not enough to clear a small hole to see through. If your sight is restricted when driving, this significantly increases your risk of accidents. The police do not like to see this either and you risk getting a fine, or even losing your driver's license in the worst case.

At the same time, you also have to be well seen: Therefore, make sure to clear headlights, indicators and number plates completely of any snow, ice or frost. You can do this for example using a broom or in low temperatures with a window de-icer from a spray can. Before every journey, make sure the lights, windshield washer and windshield wipers work perfectly.

Before the cold wintertime, fill the windshield washer and radiator with antifreeze and straight after that, turn on the windshield wipers for a while to distribute the liquid everywhere.

Do you like sleeping late? If so, we recommend you fold back the windshield wipers from the windshield when you park so they do not get frozen stuck, and also cover your windshield with a windshield cover overnight. This saves you from the morning ice-scrapping ritual.

Flat batteries are the most common cause of breakdowns, followed by motor and gearbox damage as well as damage to the tires and wheels.

Get your batteries checked regularly and change them when necessary. Replace defective batteries Immediately. Important to know: The battery will drain more quickly if, for example, the radio, navigation, heating, rear window heating or seat heating are switched on for short journeys in winter.

The weight of snow is not to be underestimated. Particularly when it snows a lot or when the snow is wet. Then those light and feathery flakes can become very heavy. So-called snow loads can cause carports to collapse and trees to fall – thereby damaging your vehicle.

With Zurich, damage due to snow loads is covered as part of accidental damage insurance for motor vehicles. Which means that you can enjoy the white splendor free from worry.