The FINANCIAL -- Snow-covered traffic signs are also easily missed. And, in general, the issue of visibility is a particularly important one in winter, according to Allianz insurance, check the list which can help you prepare for winter driving.

Winter tires are an absolute must - thanks to their softer rubber compound and special tread patterns, they allow for significantly greater traction on icy roads than summer tires. There are different regulations for various regions and countries with snowy roads this time of year, so be sure to check with them on the latest rules just to make sure.

If you think that clearing the snow and ice off your car in winter is not worth the effort, you are endangering yourself and others and compromising road safety. Besides, you risk not only high penalties, but also losing your insurance cover. Even if it can be a pain, you must scrape all the ice and snow off your car before you start driving. One thing is for certain: the consequences of an accident caused by an "igloo on wheels" are always much more unpleasant than any time you think you may lose.

You also must pay attention to road signs - even if they are covered in snow. A road sign that has been properly positioned remains in force even if snow has rendered it illegible. If you disregard road signs that are clearly identifiable because of their shape, the law will show no mercy. As a general rule: always slow down and be ready to step on the brakes.

To ensure visibility in winter, you should also make sure that your vehicle's headlights are adjusted correctly and that all of the lights are in working order. Clean windshields are also a must - intact wiper blades, regular checks to determine the level of liquid in the windscreen wiper unit and a sufficient amount of antifreeze in the liquid will ensure that your visibility is crystal clear at all times.

If you have children with you as passengers in the car, they need to be particularly well protected from risks associated with the weather conditions. Thickly padded coats, for example, make it more difficult to put on seatbelts correctly. It is better to take children's jackets off before you fasten their seatbelts. And it goes without saying that a suitable child car seat is mandatory in winter, too.

Related Stories

• Zurich's General Insurance business announces further senior appointments
• Mega-projects need courage, dependability and innovation in insurance underwriting
• Shining brightly for the final