Winter brings its own challenges for drivers, from darker journeys and low sun to road salt, ice and rapidly changing conditions. A few simple checks before you set off, together with adapting your driving to the conditions, can help you stay safer on the road.

Here are six simple winter driving tips from Auto Windscreens and Auto Calibrate.

1. Keep your windscreen clear

Road salt, spray and winter grime can quickly build up on your windscreen and reduce visibility.

Check your wiper blades for signs of wear or damage, keep your windscreen clean and make sure your washer fluid is topped up with a suitable winter mix.

2. Be ready for low winter sun

The sun sitting lower in the sky during winter can create sudden glare and make it harder to see clearly.

Keeping your windscreen clean inside and out can help, and it's worth having a pair of sunglasses handy for bright winter journeys.

3. Keep cameras and sensors clear

Modern vehicles can use cameras and sensors to support a range of driver assistance systems, so remember them when carrying out your winter checks.

Road salt, dirt, snow and ice can build up around cameras and sensors, so keep them clean and unobstructed. It's also important not to ignore any warning messages displayed by your vehicle.

4. Check your windscreen for damage

While you're cleaning or clearing your windscreen, take a moment to check it for chips or cracks.

Winter weather is a good reminder to keep an eye on the condition of your windscreen, and if you spot any damage, arrange to have it checked.

5. Take extra care on icy roads

When roads become icy, gentle inputs and additional space are important. Accelerate, brake and steer gently, allow more time for your journey and leave additional space between you and the vehicle ahead.

The Highway Code advises drivers to keep well back in icy or snowy weather because stopping distances can be ten times greater than on dry roads. The Highway Code - Driving in adverse weather conditions (226 to 237)

6. Adapt your driving in fog and poor visibility

Fog can reduce how far ahead you can see and how quickly you can respond to what's happening on the road.

Reduce your speed, leave more space between you and the vehicle ahead and use the appropriate lights for the conditions.

The Highway Code states that headlights must be used when visibility is seriously reduced, generally when you cannot see for more than 100 metres. The Highway Code - Driving in adverse weather conditions (226 to 237)

A few simple checks can make a difference

Winter conditions can change quickly, so preparing your vehicle and adjusting your driving to the road and weather conditions can help make journeys safer.

Keep your windscreen clear, give your vehicle a quick check before setting off and take extra care when conditions deteriorate.

Safe travels this winter, from Auto Windscreens and Auto Calibrate.