Driving in a winter coat is dangerous, especially for children!

Although it is no longer very cold, you might even be behind the wheel in your winter coat. This winter clothing proves to be life-threatening in traffic.

The ADAC, the German equivalent of the ANWB, came to this conclusion based on a crash test. In this article, we list everything you should not do.

Winter coat dangerous at the wheel

If you get behind the wheel in a thick winter coat or a down jacket, not only does it make you less able to move. Your jacket has a major impact on how your car seat belt works, especially for children.

The crash test was carried out at just 16 kilometers per hour. This can also lead to serious injuries to the intestines, liver or spleen. In fact, you can sustain minor injuries during an emergency stop wearing a winter coat.

How can you hurt yourself in a winter coat? Isn’t it just an extra layer between the belt and your body? That’s true, but that extra layer is the problem. The padding creates space between your body and the belt. The lower part of your belt goes over your lower abdomen when you have your winter coat on. When you have taken off your winter coat, the belt presses directly on the hip bones.

Also, do not wear scarves or hats

According to ADAC, not only a winter coat at the wheel is life-threatening. Scarves and hats can also be dangerous if they get in your way. In addition, thick gloves often cause a bad grip on the handlebars. The ADAC also recommends not driving with thick boots. This can cause difficulties when accelerating, braking and clutching.

If you are cold, you can use the parking heater in many cars to preheat your car. If you don’t have a car with this function, a small blanket – over the seat belt – will help against the cold without it becoming dangerous, advises the ADAC.