Gary Long, account manager from Sureterm, said: “According to figures from The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders it seems the sale of 4X4s has experienced a reasonable increase in recent years with figures in 2010 of 156,552 compared with 132,472 in 2009. This may reflect the harsh winters we have experienced in the UK and suggest that motorists are preparing for the worst. But it is important that 4X4 drivers don’t become complacent during the cold, dark months and we hope our advice will be of some assistance to those drivers out on the road this winter.”
- Your 4X4 vehicle may allow you to grip the road and navigate steep icy roads, but you could still experience difficulties when braking. Ensure you drive slowly and carefully, leaving plenty of space between you and the car in front
- Preparation is key. If you’re considering using winter tyres* to increase your vehicle’s reliability, ensure you have fitted them to your 4X4 before the bad weather sets in. You don’t want to be changing them knee deep in snow
- When the weather worsens, news and weather reports will often advise drivers to only travel if necessary. Listen to these forecasts and take their advice
- The weight of a 4X4 can be beneficial when navigating slippery or snow covered terrain however, this can also be its downfall. If you lose control, it can be difficult to regain. Keep a steady pace and steer the vehicle slowly and carefully
- Many 4X4 drivers don’t use their four wheel drive in order to improve fuel economy. In wintry conditions and if in doubt, use it
- Don’t be a hero. If you see other cars stranded on ice or in snow, don’t attempt to tow them out if there’s the possibility you could be putting yourself and others in danger
- Remember that you aren't invincible. Drive cautiously as black ice and snow drifts can catch out the most experienced driver in the sturdiest of vehicles
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* Check your car insurance policy for details regarding changing your vehicle’s specification
For further information, please contact:
Capita Press Office, 0207 654 2399
Sureterm Direct, part of Capita Insurance Distribution, was acquired by The Capita Group in 2010. It employs around 60 staff in St Ives Cambridgeshire and currently administers 80,000 policies. The company was formed in 1998 and is now one of the UK’s leading specialist insurance intermediaries. A wide range of policies exist which cater for 4x4’s, Land Rovers, Campervans, Caravans, Motorhomes, Classic Cars and much more. Further information can be found at www.sureterm.com
Capita Insurance Distribution, part of Capita Insurance Services, is the fifth largest UK personal lines insurance intermediary and third party administrator specialising in personal lines solutions for affinity clients. Capita Insurance Distribution employs over 1000 staff (based in Portsmouth, Colchester and St Ives in Cambridge) and administers around £200m of personal lines gross written insurance premium. It works with 49 insurance companies in the UK personal lines market place, and currently maintains different product sites for 82 household brands such as Asda, Liverpool Victoria and Admiral. Further information can be found at www.capitainsuranceservices.co.uk