But in reality, car parks are one of the most common places for bumps, scrapes and near misses.

Tight spaces, pedestrians, reversing vehicles and distracted drivers all combine to create an environment where small mistakes can quickly turn into costly ones. Whether you’ve just passed your test or have years of experience behind the wheel, it’s worth brushing up on the most common car park errors – and how to avoid them.

1. Rushing to grab a space

We’ve all seen it – a driver spots a free bay and makes a beeline for it without fully checking their surroundings.

Car parks can trigger a competitive mindset, especially in busy supermarkets or retail parks. But rushing often leads to poor observations, tight turns and misjudged distances.

How to avoid it:
Slow down as you enter. Scan ahead and around you, not just for empty spaces but for pedestrians, trolleys and reversing lights. A few extra seconds can prevent a costly scrape.

2. Poor observation when reversing

Reversing is one of the biggest causes of car park incidents. It’s easy to rely too heavily on mirrors or reversing cameras and miss what’s happening around you.

Pedestrians – especially children – can appear suddenly between parked cars. Other vehicles may also begin reversing at the same time.

How to avoid it:
Use all-round observation. Check mirrors, look over your shoulders and move slowly. If your view is restricted, take extra care. Technology helps, but it doesn’t replace proper checks.

3. Cutting across empty bays

When a car park looks quiet, it can be tempting to cut across empty spaces rather than sticking to the marked lanes.

The problem? Other drivers may not expect you to approach from that direction. It increases the chance of confusion or a low-speed collision.

How to avoid it:
Stick to the designated lanes and arrows, even if the car park is nearly empty. Predictability makes things safer for everyone.

4. Misjudging space when parking

Underestimating how much room you need – or overestimating your turning circle – can leave you parked over the line or uncomfortably close to another car.

This doesn’t just make life difficult for other drivers. It also increases the chance of door dings and minor damage.

How to avoid it:
Take your time lining up properly. If you’re not happy with your position, adjust it. A quick correction is better than squeezing into a space and hoping for the best.

5. Ignoring pedestrians

Car parks are shared spaces. People are often walking between cars, unloading shopping or managing young children.

Because speeds are lower, some drivers become less vigilant. But lower speeds don’t remove the risk – they just increase reaction time.

How to avoid it:
Expect pedestrians at all times, especially near shop entrances or payment machines. Drive slowly and be prepared to stop.

6. Getting distracted

It’s easy to switch off mentally once you’ve left the main road. Adjusting your sat nav, checking your phone, or chatting to passengers can take your attention away at the wrong moment.

Car parks require concentration, particularly when manoeuvring in tight areas.

How to avoid it:
Stay focused until you’ve fully parked and switched off the engine. If you need to check directions or messages, wait until you’re safely stationary.

7. Forgetting about your surroundings when leaving

The final mistake often happens at the end of the journey.

Drivers may jump back in the car and reverse out without fully checking around them. Others forget that visibility can be reduced by larger vehicles parked either side.

How to avoid it:
Before moving, check mirrors and blind spots carefully. Reverse slowly and be prepared to stop if necessary. If your view is blocked, inch out gradually while continuing to observe.

Small spaces, big consequences

Car park incidents are usually low-speed, but they can still be stressful and expensive.

The good news is that most common mistakes come down to patience and observation. Slowing down, staying predictable and giving yourself time to manoeuvre can significantly reduce the risk of bumps and scrapes.

Car parks might not feel like the most challenging part of driving – but they demand just as much care and attention as any other road environment.

Make sure you’re set up to drive with confidence from day one

The post 7 common car park mistakes appeared first on Veygo.

But new research suggests it could also have a longer-term impact on earning potential.

According to a recent survey of 2,000 UK adults commissioned by Veygo, those who passed their driving test before the age of 21 earn £10,000 more per year on average than non-drivers.

Driving alone doesn’t guarantee career success. But the findings highlight how mobility and opportunity are closely linked.

What the research found

The study revealed a notable earning gap:

• Non-drivers earn just under £21,000 a year on average
• Those who passed before 21 earn almost £32,000 on average
• 23% of drivers say they couldn’t do their current job without a full licence
• 39% of non-drivers say they’ve missed out on at least one job because they can’t drive

For some roles, driving is essential. For others, it’s simply advantageous. Being able to commute flexibly, travel between sites, or accept work outside major transport routes can significantly widen your options.

In short, a licence can expand your access to opportunity.

Why learning earlier may create momentum

Passing before 21 doesn’t magically increase your salary. But it can create early momentum.

Those who learned younger said it helped them secure at least one additional job by that age. Early work experience can snowball – stronger CVs, better references and increased confidence when applying for future roles.

Mobility also removes geographical limits. Without relying entirely on public transport, job seekers can consider roles in business parks, rural areas or shifts outside standard hours.

Over time, broader access to work can translate into higher earning potential.

Independence still matters

The motivation to learn young isn’t just financial.

• 53% said they learned to drive to feel more independent
• 45% wanted the freedom to travel
• 34% were encouraged by family
• 33% described passing as a ‘rite of passage’
• 31% wanted to avoid relying on others for lifts

That sense of independence can influence more than convenience. It can shape confidence, decision-making and willingness to pursue opportunities.

By contrast, those who learned later were more likely to say they felt held back. Over a third said they felt less independent than their peers, while others felt restricted by unreliable public transport or limited travel options.

So why doesn’t everyone learn earlier?

Cost remains the biggest barrier. Among those who passed after 21:

• 31% said they couldn’t afford lessons earlier
• 24% lacked confidence
• 21% didn’t have access to a car to practise in

For many young people balancing education, part-time work and living costs, learning to drive can feel financially out of reach. That makes planning and support key.

Thinking about learning? A few practical tips

If you’re considering learning – or encouraging someone else to – a few small steps can make it more manageable:

Start with a simple savings plan: Putting aside small amounts regularly can help spread the cost of lessons and tests.

Build confidence gradually: Private practice with a qualified supervisor can reinforce lessons and reduce nerves.

Book your theory test early: Getting the theory done can create momentum and give you a clear milestone to work towards.

Think long term: Rather than seeing driving purely as a short-term expense, consider how it could expand work and lifestyle options over the next decade.

It’s about opportunity, not guarantees

It’s important to be clear: passing your test before 21 doesn’t automatically add £10,000 to your salary. Career paths depend on industry, education, experience and many other factors.

But the research does underline something significant mobility creates options. And options matter.

Whether it’s applying for a wider range of jobs, travelling independently, or not having to turn down an opportunity because of transport limitations, having a licence can remove practical barriers at a key stage of life.

For many young people, learning to drive isn’t just about getting on the road. It’s about the doors it can open.

If you’re learning to drive and want peace of mind for private practice, get a quote in minutes.

The post Does learning to drive young give you a career head start? appeared first on Veygo.

Here’s what every UK driver should know about sharing the road with cyclists and motorbikes.

Why extra care matters

Cyclists and motorcyclists don’t have the protective shell of a car. Even a low-speed collision can result in serious injury. According to data published by the Department for Transport, riders of two-wheeled vehicles are among the most vulnerable road users in Great Britain.

As a driver, that doesn’t mean you’re automatically at fault in every incident – but it does mean you have a responsibility to stay alert and anticipate risks.

Overtaking cyclists safely

Overtaking a cyclist isn’t the same as overtaking another car.

Under updates to the Highway Code introduced in 2022, drivers should:

• Leave at least 1.5 metres when overtaking cyclists at speeds of up to 30mph
• Leave more space at higher speeds
• Wait behind a cyclist if it’s unsafe or not possible to overtake with sufficient clearance

If you can’t give that space, don’t squeeze past. Hang back. A few seconds of patience could prevent a serious collision.

Also remember that cyclists:

• May ride in the centre of the lane on narrow roads
• Are allowed to ride two abreast
• May move out to avoid potholes or drains

This isn’t bad riding – it’s often the safest option for them.

Understanding junction risks

Junctions are one of the most common locations for collisions involving cyclists and motorcyclists.

When turning left:

• Check mirrors carefully
• Look over your left shoulder for a lifesaver check
• Be aware of cyclists filtering on your left

When turning right:

• Watch for oncoming motorcyclists – they can appear smaller and further away than they really are

Take extra care at roundabouts too. Cyclists may take the lane for visibility. Motorcyclists may position themselves differently from cars for safety and balance.

Never assume you’ve seen everything after a quick glance.

Filtering motorbikes

In slow-moving traffic, motorcyclists are legally allowed to filter between lanes. It can feel surprising if you’re not expecting it, especially in heavy traffic.

If you notice a motorbike filtering:

• Avoid sudden lane changes
• Check mirrors before opening your door in stationary traffic
• Signal clearly and in good time

Motorcyclists are trained to anticipate hazards, but they rely on drivers being predictable.

Safe door-opening to protect cyclists

One of the biggest urban risks for cyclists is ‘dooring’ – when a car door is opened into their path.

A simple technique can help prevent this: instead of opening your door with your hand nearest the handle, use your opposite hand. This naturally turns your body and encourages you to look over your shoulder for approaching cyclists before stepping out.

It’s a small habit that can make a big difference, particularly in busy towns and cities.

Be extra cautious in rural areas

While cities often get the most attention, rural roads can pose serious risks too.

Motorcyclists often enjoy scenic routes and may be travelling at speed on open stretches. Meanwhile, cyclists might be navigating narrow country lanes with limited passing places.

On these roads:

• Slow down on bends
• Expect the unexpected
• Avoid overtaking near blind summits

Remember, a motorbike can close a gap much faster than you might think.

Night-time and poor weather driving

Visibility is critical. Cyclists are legally required to use lights after dark, but not all clothing is high-vis and bike lights can sometimes blend into background lighting. Motorcyclists use dipped headlights during the day, but glare, rain and spray can reduce how clearly you see them.

In poor weather:

• Increase your following distance
• Take extra time at junctions
• Double-check blind spots

A mindset shift: patience and awareness

Sharing the road safely isn’t just about rules – it’s about mindset.

• Expect cyclists in urban areas, especially near cycle lanes and parks
• Expect motorcyclists when traffic is heavy or the weather is good
• Don’t rush overtakes
• Don’t let frustration dictate your decisions

Most journeys only take a few minutes longer when you drive patiently, but the safety impact can be significant.

It works both ways

While this guide focuses on drivers, road safety is a shared responsibility. Cyclists, motorcyclists and drivers all have a part to play in keeping UK roads safer.

Whether you’re a learner building confidence, a new driver gaining experience, or someone who’s been behind the wheel for decades, staying aware of more vulnerable road users is simply part of being a responsible motorist.

A little extra space. A little extra time. A lot more safety.

Ready to put what you’ve learned into practice? Make sure you’re covered for every journey.

The post Sharing the road with cyclists and motorbikes: a UK driver’s guide appeared first on Veygo.

But while passengers can make journeys more enjoyable, they can also make them more distracting – sometimes without drivers even realising it.

New research commissioned by Veygo, surveying 2,000 UK adults, found that nearly a third of drivers (32%) admit they feel distracted when driving with friends in the car. Among 18-24-year-olds, that figure rises to almost half (48%).

So what is it about driving with friends that makes it harder to focus?

It’s not just noise – it’s divided attention

When people think about distracted driving, they often picture phones. But passengers introduce something slightly different: social distraction.

According to the Veygo-commissioned research, drivers are most distracted by:

• Friends talking to them (42%)
• Talking too loudly (37%)
• Being told to look at something outside the window (27%)
• Loud music (24%)
• Directions being given too late (24%)
• Someone trying to show them something on their phone (23%)

On their own, these might seem minor. But driving requires constant scanning, hazard perception and split-second decisions. Add in social interaction – answering questions, reacting to jokes, responding to commentary – and your cognitive load increases.

In simple terms: your brain has more to juggle.

The pressure to perform

There’s another factor at play, particularly for younger drivers: social pressure.

When you’re alone in the car, you make decisions based purely on safety and road conditions. When friends are present, there can be subtle pressure – even unintentionally – to:

• Keep up with traffic
• Take a quicker route
• React to something funny or surprising
• Appear calm and confident

For newer drivers, that added layer can reduce the mental space available for safe decision-making. But even experienced motorists aren’t immune.

When distraction turns into risk

Interestingly, 34% of drivers say they actually become more cautious when friends distract them. That suggests many people are aware of the shift in focus and try to compensate.

However:

• 19% report having a near miss
• 12% have had to pull over
• 6% say they’ve been involved in a crash

That’s a reminder that awareness alone isn’t always enough. Once concentration dips, even briefly, the margin for error narrows.

Why younger drivers feel it more

With 48% of 18-24-year-olds reporting distraction, experience likely plays a role.

Newer drivers are still building automatic habits – gear changes, mirror checks and hazard perception require more conscious thought than they do for seasoned motorists. Add conversation and background noise, and that mental workload increases further.

That doesn’t mean driving with friends is unsafe by default. It just means the environment inside the car matters more than many people realise.

How to keep social drives safe

Driving with friends doesn’t have to mean distraction. A few small steps can make a big difference:

1. Set the tone before you move

Let passengers know you’ll need extra focus in busy areas or unfamiliar roads. A quick heads-up can prevent interruptions later.

2. Stay in control of the environment

Music, navigation and in-car settings should stay under the driver’s control. Sudden changes can break concentration at the wrong moment.

3. Keep phones out of sight

Even a quick glance at someone else’s screen can pull your attention from the road. It can wait.

4. Ask for calm, clear directions

Late instructions lead to rushed decisions. Agree in advance how directions will be given.

5. Pull over if needed

If things feel overwhelming or chaotic, stopping safely is always better than continuing distracted.

A car is a social space – but safety comes first.

It’s easy to forget that driving is one of the most complex everyday tasks we do. The moment the engine starts, you’re processing speed, distance, road signs, pedestrians, cyclists and other vehicles – all at once.

Friends can make journeys memorable. But staying focused ensures they’re memorable for the right reasons.

Whether you’re newly qualified or have years of experience, being aware of how passengers affect your concentration is a simple step towards safer driving.

Ready to drive with confidence, even with friends in the car? Get a quote in minutes.

The post The hidden risk of driving with friends appeared first on Veygo.

Driving myths tend to stick around because they’re often repeated with confidence. But believing them can sometimes lead to confusion, bad habits or unexpected run-ins with the law.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at five common driving myths in the UK – and what the reality actually is.

Myth 1: You’re allowed 10% over the speed limit

This is one of the most common driving myths in the UK. Many drivers believe that it’s acceptable to drive at 10% plus 2mph over the speed limit without facing consequences.

This idea comes from guidance issued by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), which recommends that officers may use discretion when enforcing speed limits – often starting enforcement at 10% plus 2mph. However, this is guidance, not law, and it doesn’t apply automatically in every situation.

Police forces can choose how they enforce speed limits, and speed cameras don’t necessarily follow the same thresholds.

The truth: The speed limit is the legal maximum. You can be fined or receive penalty points for exceeding it, even by a small amount.

Myth 2: You must always drive at the speed limit

Some drivers believe that driving below the speed limit is illegal, while others assume it’s always fine – no matter how slowly they’re going.

In the UK, speed limits set the maximum speed for a road, not a required minimum. There’s no national blanket minimum speed limit. However, driving unreasonably slowly can still be an issue.

Under the Road Traffic Act 1988, driving too slowly may be classed as careless or inconsiderate driving if it falls below the standard expected of a competent driver. This includes driving without due care and attention or without reasonable consideration for other road users.

This usually applies where slow driving causes congestion, disrupts traffic flow, or prompts other drivers to make risky manoeuvres – such as sudden overtaking – increasing the risk of collisions.

The truth: Driving below the speed limit is legal when conditions call for it, but driving unreasonably slowly without good reason can be considered careless or inconsiderate.

Myth 3: Hands-free phone use is always legal

Most drivers are aware that using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal. However, many assume that hands-free use is completely risk-free from a legal point of view.

While hands-free devices are permitted, they’re not a free pass. If you’re distracted – whether that’s by a phone call, voice commands, or interacting with a mounted device – and not in proper control of your vehicle, you could still be stopped.

This also applies to things like scrolling through playlists or navigating menus while driving.

The truth: Hands-free use is only acceptable if it doesn’t distract you or affect your control of the vehicle.

Myth 4: Learner drivers can’t get penalty points

There’s a common misconception that penalty points only apply once you’ve passed your driving test.

In reality, learner drivers are subject to the same road traffic laws as everyone else. That means offences such as speeding, dangerous driving, or using a mobile phone can result in penalty points, fines or even a driving ban.

Any points gained as a learner remain on your driving record. If you reach six or more points within two years of passing your test, your licence can be revoked, meaning you’d need to reapply and retake your tests.

The truth: Learner drivers can receive penalty points, and those points still count after you pass.

Myth 5: Fully comprehensive insurance always costs more

It’s often assumed that fully comprehensive insurance is automatically more expensive than third-party or third-party, fire and theft cover.

In reality, insurance pricing is based on risk rather than just the level of cover. Some insurers view drivers who choose fully comprehensive cover as lower risk, which can sometimes make it the cheaper option.

The cost can also depend on factors such as how long you need cover for, how often you drive, and your individual circumstances.

The truth: Fully comprehensive insurance isn’t always the most expensive option and can sometimes offer better overall value.

Separating fact from fiction

Driving myths are easy to pick up and hard to shake, especially when they’re repeated often enough. But road laws and driving expectations aren’t always as simple as they seem.

Whether you drive every day or only occasionally, staying informed helps you make safer decisions and avoid unpleasant surprises. When in doubt, checking the Highway Code or official guidance is always better than relying on hearsay.

Ready to put the myths to bed? Need temporary cover for a quick trip or learner insurance while you practise? Get a price in minutes.

The post 5 common driving myths appeared first on Veygo.

Below are several common but challenging scenarios faced on UK roads. Take a moment to consider what you’d do – then see what the safest response looks like.

1. You’re waiting to turn right and the traffic lights change

You’ve moved into the middle of a junction to turn right. The lights change from green to amber, but oncoming traffic is still passing.

What’s the correct response?

If you entered the junction while the light was green, you should complete the turn once it’s safe – even if the lights change to red. This is expected and legal.

What you shouldn’t do is reverse back behind the stop line or hesitate once the way is clear. Keep checking for pedestrians and cyclists as you complete the turn and clear the junction promptly.

2. A driver is tailgating you on a narrow road

You’re driving at an appropriate speed, but the vehicle behind is following very closely and clearly wants to get past.

How should you handle it?

Stay calm and maintain a steady and safe, legal speed. Do not react emotionally as this will only increase the risk to yourself and any other drivers.

If conditions allow, increase the distance between you and the vehicle ahead, giving yourself more time to brake gently. Where it’s safe and suitable, pulling over briefly to let the other driver pass can reduce pressure and help everyone move on safely.

3. You realise you’re in the wrong lane at a roundabout

As you approach a busy roundabout, you suddenly realise you’re not in the correct lane for your intended exit.

What should you do?

If it’s not safe to change lanes, continue in the lane you’re already in and follow it around – even if that means taking a different exit. You can always re-route afterwards.

Cutting across lanes at the last second is one of the most common causes of collisions on roundabouts. Missing an exit is inconvenient; making a sudden manoeuvre is dangerous.

4. A cyclist is riding in the centre of the lane

You’re driving behind a cyclist who’s positioned centrally in the lane, even though the road might appear wide enough to overtake.

Is this allowed – and what’s the safest response?

Cyclists are permitted to ride in the centre of the lane, particularly on narrow roads or where there are hazards ahead, such as parked cars or junctions.

The safest option is to stay behind them until you can overtake with plenty of space. When you do pass, leave at least 1.5 metres at speeds up to 30mph – more at higher speeds – and don’t try to squeeze through if the space isn’t there.

5. Heavy rain suddenly reduces visibility on a motorway

You’re driving on the motorway when rain becomes much heavier, making it harder to see other vehicles clearly.

What changes should you make?

Reduce your speed and increase your following distance. In wet conditions, the Highway Code recommends leaving at least a four-second gap.

Make sure your headlights are on (but not full beam), avoid sudden steering or braking, and be alert for surface water. If visibility becomes very poor, it may be safest to leave the motorway at the next exit or pull into services until conditions improve.

6. An emergency vehicle approaches from behind in slow traffic

Traffic is crawling when you hear a siren approaching from behind.

What’s the right thing to do?

Stay calm and look for a safe way to create space. Avoid stopping suddenly or mounting pavements. Unless directed to by a police or traffic officer, do not move through a red light or enter a bus lane to make way.

Wait until the lights change or until there is a safe, legal gap to pull into. Emergency drivers are trained to wait behind you or find an alternative route if you are blocked at a junction.

Final thoughts

Driving isn’t just about knowing the rules – it’s about applying them calmly under pressure. The safest drivers aren’t those who react quickest, but those who think clearly, anticipate problems and avoid making situations worse.

Being prepared for these everyday challenges can make a real difference, helping journeys feel smoother, safer and far less stressful – whatever the road throws at you.

The post Would you handle these six situations correctly? appeared first on Veygo.

It’s rarely about a lack of effort. Often it’s because certain junctions behave differently to what drivers expect, or because there’s a lot happening at once. Below are some types of junctions that regularly catch drivers out, along with tips on how to approach them calmly and safely.

1. Staggered junctions

At first glance, staggered junctions can look like one big crossroads. In reality, they’re two separate T-junctions placed close together – and that difference really matters.

Why they’re tricky

• Drivers sometimes assume they can go straight across in one move
• Traffic from the ‘second’ junction can be missed
• It’s easy to drift into the wrong lane if you’re not positioned correctly

How to handle them

• Treat each part as its own junction
• Pause in the middle if needed – but only if it’s safe and there’s room
• Watch carefully for traffic approaching from both sides

2. Junctions on bends or hills

Junctions aren’t always placed on nice, flat, straight roads. When visibility is limited by a bend or hill, judging whether it’s safe to pull out becomes much harder.

Why they’re tricky

• Oncoming traffic can appear suddenly
• Cars may be travelling faster than expected
• Other drivers might not see you waiting to emerge

How to handle them

• Edge forward slowly to improve your view
• Don’t rely on sound alone
• Be prepared to wait longer than usual

3. Multi-lane roundabouts

Roundabouts already demand good observation skills. Add multiple lanes, unclear markings or busy traffic, and they can feel overwhelming – even for experienced drivers.

Why they’re tricky

• Lane discipline is easy to get wrong
• Other drivers may change lanes unexpectedly
• It’s not always obvious which lane you should be in

How to handle them

• Read signs early and choose your lane in advance
• Follow road markings rather than copying other drivers
• If you miss your exit, stay calm and go around again

4. Unmarked or ‘informal’ junctions

In residential areas or on rural roads, junctions aren’t always clearly marked. There may be no road markings, no signs, and no obvious priority.

Why they’re tricky

• Priority isn’t always clear
• Other drivers may assume they have right of way
• It can feel awkward deciding who should go first

How to handle them

• Slow right down and be ready to stop
• Make eye contact where possible
• When in doubt, give way

5. Box junctions

Box junctions are simple in theory but surprisingly easy to get wrong – and mistakes here are often punished with fines rather than just embarrassment.

Why they’re tricky

• Traffic ahead can stop suddenly
• Drivers enter without being certain there’s space to exit
• Pressure from traffic behind can lead to rushed decisions

How to handle them

• Only enter if your exit is clear
• Ignore pressure from drivers behind you
• Remember that turning right is often allowed if your exit lane is clear

A quick pause before entering can save you a fine and a lot of frustration.

Final thought

Most junction mistakes don’t happen because drivers don’t know the rules. They happen because junctions are unpredictable, busy, and sometimes poorly laid out.

The best habit to build is simple: slow down, observe early, and don’t rush yourself. Taking an extra few seconds at a tricky junction is always better than taking a chance you’re not sure about.

Confidence at junctions comes with experience – and every careful decision you make is part of building it.

Want a bit more confidence at tricky junctions? Learner insurance can help you get more practice in, and temporary cover is handy for short-term drives

The post 5 Junctions that catch drivers out (and how to handle them) appeared first on Veygo.

Here’s our practical guide to driving in snow and ice.

Before you set off: preparation is key

The safest journey in icy conditions is often the one you don’t make. If your trip isn’t essential, consider delaying it until conditions improve. If you do need to drive, a little preparation can make a big difference.

Start by checking the weather forecast and traffic updates so you know what to expect. Allow extra time for your journey – rushing increases the risk of mistakes.

Make sure your car is winter-ready:

• Clear all snow and ice from windows, mirrors, lights and the roof before driving off.
• Check your tyre tread depth (the legal minimum is 1.6mm, but more grip is better in winter).
• Ensure your windscreen washer fluid contains antifreeze and is topped up.
• Keep essentials in the car, such as warm clothing, a phone charger, a torch, and de-icer.

Good visibility and grip are vital when roads are icy.

Moving off and controlling your speed

When driving on snow or ice, smoothness is everything. Sudden movements can cause you to lose control.

Move off gently, using low revs. If your car allows it, starting in second gear can reduce wheel spin. Once moving, keep your speed low and consistent. Even if the road looks clear, patches of ice can be hard to spot – especially in shaded areas, on bridges, and early in the morning or late at night.

Remember that stopping distances increase dramatically in icy conditions. Leave a much larger gap than usual between you and the vehicle ahead – up to ten times the normal distance if the road is very slippery.

Steering, braking and gears

Steering should be smooth and gradual. Avoid sharp turns, as these can cause the tyres to lose grip. If the car starts to slide, gently ease off the pedals and steer smoothly in the direction you want the front of the car to go.

When braking:

• Brake early and gently.
• If your car has ABS, apply steady pressure to the brake pedal and let the system work.
• If it doesn’t, use gentle cadence braking to avoid locking the wheels.

Use higher gears where possible to help reduce wheel spin, and avoid unnecessary gear changes on slippery roads.

Hills, junctions and rural roads

Hills can be particularly challenging in snow and ice. Try to maintain a steady speed when going uphill and avoid stopping if possible. When going downhill, slow down well before the slope and use engine braking by selecting a lower gear.

Approach junctions with extra caution. Brake earlier than usual and be prepared for other drivers to struggle with stopping or pulling away.

Rural roads can be especially hazardous in winter. They’re often untreated and may look clear while hiding ice underneath. Drive defensively and be ready to react.

What to do if you skid

Skids are scary, especially for new drivers, but staying calm is crucial.

If your car skids:

• Do not slam on the brakes.
• Ease off the pedals.
• Steer smoothly into the skid (towards where the front of the car needs to go).

Modern cars are designed to help regain control, but your inputs still matter.

Know when to stop

If conditions become too dangerous – heavy snowfall, freezing rain, or very poor visibility – the safest option may be to pull over somewhere safe and wait. No journey is worth risking your safety.

Final thoughts

Winter driving in the UK can be unpredictable, but good preparation, patience and smooth driving techniques go a long way. For learner drivers and those new to the road, it’s completely normal to feel nervous – take your time, build confidence gradually, and don’t be afraid to postpone a journey if conditions feel unsafe.

Staying informed and driving cautiously helps keep you – and everyone else on the road – safer this winter.

If you’re getting extra practice in winter conditions, make sure you’re covered for every trip.

The post Driving in snow and ice: A practical guide appeared first on Veygo.

But knowing how (and when) to use your lights properly isn’t just about avoiding fines – it’s about being safe, seen and confident behind the wheel. Here’s a simple breakdown of what the UK law says about car lights, plus a few practical tips from the Veygo team.

1. Lights aren’t just for night-time

If you’ve just passed your test, it’s easy to think headlights are only for when it’s dark. In reality, you’ll need them more often than you’d expect.

Rain, fog, spray from the car ahead – anything that cuts your visibility means it’s time to light up. If you can’t clearly see the car in front (or they might struggle to see you), switch on your dipped headlights. It’s safer and it keeps you within the law.

Modern cars with daytime running lights (DRLs) help, but they don’t always illuminate the rear of your car – so check that your tail lights are actually on when conditions get murky.

Veygo tip: When in doubt, lights on. Nobody ever failed a journey for being too visible.

2. Night driving 101

As soon as the sun sets, your lights become your voice on the road – they show others where you are, where you’re going, and how fast.

Use dipped headlights whenever street lighting isn’t enough. Full beam is brilliant on unlit roads, but remember to dip them again if someone’s coming towards you, or you’re following another car. It’s just good manners (and keeps everyone’s eyesight intact).

You technically can drive on sidelights alone in well-lit areas, but it’s not worth the risk – most drivers just keep their dipped beams on for better visibility.

And if you’re heading out late, give your lights a quick once-over before you set off. It’s an easy way to spot a dead bulb before someone else does.

3. Brake lights and signals

Brake lights and indicators might seem boring, but they’re the reason traffic doesn’t collapse into chaos.

If a brake bulb goes, other drivers have no warning you’re slowing down. That can end badly – or at least earn you a stop from the police. Check them regularly (a quick reverse up to a window or garage door shows if both sides light up).

Indicators, meanwhile, are your way of telling everyone what’s next. Use them early, clearly, and always cancel after the turn. As for hazard lights, save them for when you’ve had to stop somewhere unusual or need to warn people of danger ahead – not for thanking someone or pulling up briefly.

Veygo tip: get in the habit of doing a ‘light walkaround’ whenever you refuel. It takes 20 seconds and saves you a fine.

4. Fog lights

Fog lights are like espresso shots: great in moderation, a bit much otherwise.

They’re designed for serious visibility drops – think thick fog, snow, or spray where you can barely see 100 metres ahead. If the fog clears, turn them off. They’re brighter than your regular lights and can dazzle drivers behind you. Using them in normal conditions might even earn you a fixed-penalty fine.

So: if you can see the car in front, you probably don’t need your fogs. Simple.

Quick recap

• Bad weather: Dipped headlights.
• Dark or poorly lit road: Dipped or main beam (but don’t dazzle).
• Fog or heavy snow: Fog lights on – and off again when clear.
• Every drive: Make sure your brake and indicator lights all work.

5. Keep your lights legal and working

Beyond knowing when to use them, it’s also about keeping them in good shape.

• Clean them regularly – dirt can cut their brightness by half.
• Check for cracks, condensation or loose fittings.
• Replace blown bulbs straight away (many garages will do this on the spot).
• Avoid coloured or tinted lights that could confuse other drivers – they’re illegal and could invalidate your insurance.

Veygo tip: Keep a spare bulb kit in your glovebox. They’re cheap, small, and can save your night drive.

6. How this fits with Veygo and you

At Veygo, we get it – young drivers juggle a lot. Maybe you’re driving home from a night shift, heading to a uni lecture in the rain, or borrowing a friend’s car for the weekend. Whatever the journey, visibility matters.

Good lighting habits keep you safe, lower your risk of accidents, and show you’re a responsible driver – which is exactly the kind of behaviour insurers like to see.

In short: your lights protect more than your car. They protect your confidence on the road.

Final checklist for younger drivers

Before your next drive, run through this quick list:

• Are all your exterior lights working (headlights, brake lights, indicators)?
• Are your headlights on when visibility is low, or when it’s night?
• Are your fog lights off unless visibility is really poor (under 100 metres)?
• Are your lights clean and aligned properly?
• Got spare bulbs handy?

Stay visible. Stay safe. And drive smart.

If you’re heading out in the dark, rain or fog, make sure you’re covered as well as visible.

The post What are the rules for car lights in the UK? appeared first on Veygo.

• Cat N – Non Structural
  Your car costs more to fix than it’s worth, but the main structure (the frame) isn’t damaged.
• Cat S – Structural
  Your car costs more to fix than it’s worth, and the main structure (the frame) is damaged.
• Cat B
  Your car is too badly damaged to ever go back on the road. Some parts may be recycled or reused, but the car itself can’t be kept on the road.
• Cat A
  The car can’t be repaired or recycled. It has to be completely destroyed.

Can I keep my car?

• Keeping your car
  If it’s a Cat N or Cat S, you can choose to keep the car. You’d be responsible for arranging repairs, selling it, or breaking it down for parts.

  Just keep in mind:

  • It will always carry a “Total Loss Marker” (e.g. Cat N or Cat S) that must be declared if you sell it,
  • You’ll likely need a new MOT to prove it’s roadworthy before reinsuring.
  • If you’re driving someone else’s car, the main insurer on that car needs to confirm it’s covered.
     
• Disposing of your car
  If it’s a Cat A or Cat B, you won’t be able to keep it. We’ll arrange for a salvage company to collect it and make sure it’s safely taken off the road.

  If you want to keep your private number plate, no problem — you just need to let the DVLA know. Here’s how.

  If you do choose to keep your car (Cat N or Cat S), we’ll deduct the salvage value. Your file handler will explain exactly what this means and how much it is, as it varies depending on the car.

How do we value your car?

If your car is written off, we’ll pay you its market value at the time of the accident. We use trusted industry guides which uses data from both retailers and trade to make sure the price is fair.

We look at:

• Auto Trader
• Glass’s Guide
• CAPs data

Sometimes, we may send an assessor to value the car in person or a digital assessment through photos.

What if my car is on finance?

If your car is on finance, we’ll pay the outstanding balance up to the market value of your car. Your file handler will guide you through this.

If the finance is more than your car is worth, you may have a shortfall. If you’ve got GAP Insurance, contact your GAP provider — this covers the difference between what you paid for your car originally and its current market value.

If your car’s off the road and you’re borrowing a vehicle in the meantime, make sure you’re properly covered.

The post What to do with a write-off appeared first on Veygo.