South African winters may not bring heavy snowfall, but that doesn’t mean driving conditions are always safe. Cold mornings, fog, rain, and wet roads contribute to a spike in road accidents during the winter months. Many of these incidents are the result of common—but avoidable—driving mistakes. Understanding and correcting these errors can help protect both your vehicle and your wallet.
Here are the most frequent winter driving errors South Africans make and how to steer clear of them.
1. Speeding on Wet or Icy Roads
Even a slight drizzle can turn roads into a hazard zone. Many drivers underestimate how long it takes to stop on a wet surface, leading to rear-end collisions and loss of control.
Avoid it: Slow down and increase your following distance. Drive with caution, especially during early morning or evening commutes when dew and moisture are most common.
2. Driving with Worn Tyres
Tyres with low tread are dangerous year-round, but especially during winter. Without proper grip, your car is more likely to skid on slippery surfaces.
Avoid it: Regularly check your tyre tread depth and replace tyres that are too worn. Also ensure tyre pressure is maintained, as it drops with temperature changes.
3. Poor Visibility from Fogged or Dirty Windows
Many crashes in winter occur because drivers fail to clear mist or grime from their windscreens. Limited visibility leads to delayed reaction times and missed hazards.
Avoid it: Always defog your windows before driving and keep a clean cloth in the car. Replace worn wiper blades and top up washer fluid regularly.
4. Harsh Braking and Accelerating
Sudden braking or rapid acceleration can cause your vehicle to slide, especially on cold, wet tar.
Avoid it: Brake gradually and avoid aggressive acceleration. If your car has an anti-lock braking system (ABS), apply steady pressure during an emergency stop.
5. Tailgating in Heavy Traffic
Impatient drivers often follow too closely, especially during busy commutes. On winter roads, this is a recipe for a bumper-bashing.
Avoid it: Maintain a safe following distance of at least 3 seconds in dry conditions—double it when it’s wet or visibility is poor.
6. Ignoring Dashboard Warnings
Colder weather can trigger issues like battery failure or low tyre pressure. Ignoring these early warnings increases the chance of being stranded—or worse, involved in a crash.
Avoid it: Pay attention to your dashboard. Don’t delay servicing or minor repairs during winter months.
7. Driving While Distracted
From dealing with foggy windows to adjusting the heater, distractions are everywhere. During winter, every second counts when reacting to road hazards.
Avoid it: Prepare your vehicle before you leave. Set your GPS, adjust mirrors, and defog windows before hitting the road.
Bonus: Financial Protection Matters Too
Even if you do everything right, accidents can still happen. That’s why it’s vital to have reliable cover in place. Miway Insurance offers tailored vehicle cover that suits your needs—giving you peace of mind no matter the season.
For drivers looking for smart ways to reduce their premiums, there are tips for saving on car insurance premiums that include installing tracking devices, bundling policies, or simply driving less during winter months.
Final Thoughts
Winter brings unique driving risks that require extra attention and caution. By avoiding these common errors, you can help keep yourself and others safe on the roads—while also avoiding unnecessary financial strain. And remember, having the right insurance cover in place is your safety net if things go wrong. Drive smart, stay covered, and keep winter worries off the road.
