Snow and ice can turn a festive van trip into a real test of driving skill. Across Warrington, wintry spells are possible from late November into January, and a large van responds differently to a car on slippery roads. Whether you are moving house at Christmas or delivering gifts and furniture, it pays to prepare. Here is how to handle van hire in Warrington safely in winter.
Preparing the Van Before You Leave
Before you drive away from Cockhedge, clear every window and mirror fully, not just a gap in the windscreen. Next, check that the lights work front and rear. As the driver, you should be happy the van is safe before you pull out.
Footwear matters too. A Luton van with tail lift has a higher cab, so you step down onto possibly icy ground. Therefore, wear shoes with a firm, grippy sole.
Pulling Away in Snow and Ice
The biggest mistake is accelerating too hard. Instead, pull away in second gear to reduce wheelspin, and change up early. On a laden long wheelbase high roof van, gentle inputs matter even more.
Ice lingers on side roads and shaded stretches long after main roads clear. For example, lanes toward Lymm van hire areas often stay icy for hours.
Stopping Distances and Following Space
Stopping distances grow enormously on ice. So, leave a gap that feels far too large by normal standards. On the M62 and M56, shaded sections can be much icier than the road around them.
Hills and Skids
Routes toward Frodsham and the higher ground near Haydock van hire areas include real slopes. When climbing, keep a steady speed and avoid changing gear mid-hill. When descending, pick a low gear before the slope rather than braking all the way down.
If the van skids, ease off the accelerator and steer gently into the slide. Above all, avoid sharp corrections and slow down before bends, not during them.
Visibility in Winter
Use dipped headlights all day in snow. If visibility drops sharply, switch on fog lights, then turn them off once it improves. The official Highway Code advice on snow and ice explains the rules.
Planning Your Christmas Hire
Demand for larger vans rises from mid-December, so book early. In addition, check our van hire special offers page for the advance booking discount on selected vans. Our van hire FAQs answer common questions.
We open Monday to Saturday from 8am to 4pm at Tilley Street, with secure parking. For advice on driving in snow and ice, call 01925 396 222. Alternatively, use the contact us page.
