Winter driving in Surrey can be unpredictable. From icy country lanes to foggy dual carriageways, the cold season brings a unique set of challenges for drivers – especially for learners and newly qualified drivers. Being aware of the most common seasonal hazards is key to staying safe, building confidence, and avoiding accidents.
At Surrey Driving Force, we ensure our learners are fully prepared for real-world conditions. Whether you’re just starting out or gearing up for your test, here are the top five winter hazards you should be aware of when driving in Surrey – and how to deal with them safely and sensibly.
1. Icy Roads and Black Ice
Icy surfaces are one of the most dangerous hazards during winter, especially in the early morning or late evening when temperatures drop below freezing. While obvious patches of frost may be easy to spot, black ice is far more deceptive – a thin, transparent layer that forms on the road and is virtually invisible.
Country lanes around places like Godalming, Reigate or Oxted are particularly prone to ice, especially in shaded areas, under trees, or on bridges. These spots cool down more quickly and take longer to warm up during the day.
How to handle it:
Drive slowly and avoid sudden acceleration, braking, or steering. Maintain a larger gap between your vehicle and the one in front, and be extra cautious at junctions and bends. If your car begins to slide, take your foot off the accelerator and steer gently – don’t brake harshly.
2. Reduced Visibility Due to Fog or Low Sun
Surrey often sees patches of dense fog during the colder months, particularly in low-lying areas such as near rivers or open fields. Fog drastically reduces your visibility and makes it harder to judge distances, while low sun glare – especially in December – can temporarily blind drivers, even on dry days.
How to handle it:
Use dipped headlights in fog, and switch on your rear fog light only if visibility drops below 100 metres (roughly the length of a football pitch). Remember to switch fog lights off when visibility improves to avoid dazzling others. To manage sun glare, keep a pair of sunglasses in the car and make sure your windscreen is clean inside and out. Adjust your speed and remain extra alert to road markings and signs.
3. Flooding and Standing Water
With winter rain being a common occurrence in Surrey, many roads can become flooded, especially in rural or low-lying areas like Leatherhead, Dorking, or along the River Wey. Even shallow puddles can hide potholes or cause your car to lose traction.
How to handle it:
Avoid driving through large puddles if possible – especially if you cannot see how deep the water is. If you must drive through standing water, do so slowly and steadily in a low gear. Once you’re through, gently apply the brakes to dry them off. Be mindful that wet roads reduce stopping distances, so increase the gap between you and other vehicles.
4. Slippery Leaves and Debris on the Road
While autumn is when most leaves fall, they can linger well into December and become a serious hazard. When wet, leaves can become as slippery as ice, particularly on quiet backroads or less frequently gritted areas. Combined with debris like fallen branches or mud washed onto roads, this creates a high-risk environment for skidding or losing control.
How to handle it:
Drive slowly through areas where there are lots of trees or after strong winds and heavy rain. Try to avoid driving over large patches of wet leaves or mud. Stay in a lower gear for greater control and avoid sharp turns or sudden movements with the steering wheel.
5. Longer Nights and Increased Darkness
With daylight hours at their shortest, you’re far more likely to be driving in the dark during winter – especially if you’re having lessons before or after school or work. Night driving introduces added challenges like reduced visibility, tiredness, and glare from headlights.
How to handle it:
Always ensure your headlights are working correctly and switched on as soon as visibility begins to drop. Use your dipped beams when other vehicles are nearby and full beams only on unlit roads when no one is approaching. Reduce your speed in poorly lit areas and keep your focus on the road ahead. If you’re tired, avoid getting behind the wheel and take regular breaks during long journeys.
Final Thoughts
Winter driving in Surrey requires extra care, awareness, and adaptability. From black ice and fog to floodwater and long dark evenings, the risks are real – but with the right knowledge and preparation, they’re completely manageable. At Surrey Driving Force, our experienced instructors help learners build the skills they need to stay safe on the roads all year round.
By staying alert, adjusting your driving to the conditions, and booking lessons with qualified instructors who understand Surrey’s unique roads, you’ll develop the confidence to handle winter hazards safely and calmly.
Thinking about learning to drive this winter? Get in touch with Surrey Driving Force today and book your lessons with one of our expert instructors. We’ll help you stay safe, prepared, and ready for whatever the road throws your way.
