This is how we drive in winter!

Even if we wanted to, we cannot separate ourselves from the winter weather when we get behind the wheel. Therefore, the conditions we have to face on the roads significantly influence our driving habits. According to a survey conducted by Magyar Suzuki among Hungarian drivers, four out of ten drivers change their driving habits in winter, depending on the weather, whether they use their vehicle more or less frequently . The good news is that the majority of drivers use winter tires mostly from November onwards and use any practice that helps ensure safe driving.

In autumn and winter, we have to face even more difficulties on the roads than usual, as the changed visibility conditions, decreasing temperatures, and slippery roads put a significant strain on all participants in traffic. It's not a coincidence that four out of ten drivers change their driving habits in autumn and winter – they either drive more frequently or less frequently during this time. Those who use their vehicle less often consider using a car in poorer road and visibility conditions to be less safe (42.6%) or less fast (20.7%). They think it is more practical to walk or use public transport to get to their destination (15.4%), because parking is more difficult (6.8%), and even financial considerations play a role (14.5%). At the same time, those who get behind the wheel more often in the colder months said that, compared to public transport, using their own vehicle is more comfortable, faster and, according to 9 percent of respondents, safer in cold, rainy and snowy weather.

Deterrence of freezing rain, ice and fog

But the weather conditions are making even those who would otherwise drive more often in autumn and winter more cautious. Sleet, ice and fog discourage most of us from driving: 51% of those surveyed do not drive in these conditions. The rest drive shorter distances or only agree to drive if they reach their destination before dark. Only 23% of respondents said that they were not influenced by the weather conditions they would face.

However, the good news is that the road safety campaigns of recent years are bearing fruit, with more than 84% of drivers using winter tires (and a further 13.5% using four-season tires) and one in three drivers changing their summer tires in November, regardless of the weather. But we rely on more than just seasonal tires to drive as safely as possible. During the winter months, more than two-thirds of drivers rely partially or completely on driver assistance systems, while 12.8% of respondents prefer to rely on their own skills. We also pay special attention to regularly checking tire pressure, fuel, oil and antifreeze fluid levels. Pre-heating the engine is a common practice, and motorists also make sure their cars have safety equipment such as de-icers, ice scrapers and snow shovels.

Wrapped in a cloud of scent while driving

But it's not just about safe driving, it's also about well-being. The majority of drivers surveyed believe in the power of scent and choose fragrances according to the season: the top three are vanilla, spicy orange and gingerbread.

"In winter it is especially important not to drive by rote. We must adapt to the weather and road conditions, which requires that vehicles be in good technical condition and that we drive carefully, cautiously and patiently. All road users are equally exposed to adverse conditions, so be considerate of others when driving. Safety first." - said Zsuzsanna Bonnár-Csonka, Head of Corporate Communications at Magyar Suzuki Corporation.