Darker evenings and colder weather cause havoc on the roads every winter, and this unfortunately leads to an increased number of breakdowns.

According to research motorists are 50% more likely to breakdown in January, February and March when temperatures are colder, than during any other month of the year.

To help protect both you and your car this winter, here are eight checks you should carry out before you hit the road.

1. Get a winter service
If you haven't done so already, it's a good idea to book your car into a garage to have it checked over by a mechanic.

It is better to find out now if there is anything wrong with your car so you can get it fixed before the weather gets any worse.

2. Check your tyres
When the roads are icy and wet, it's crucial your car's tyres are in tip top condition to reduce the risk of skidding. Ensure the tread depth meets the legal requirement of 1.6mm and check the pressure.

Pumping up your tyres should also increase your car's fuel efficiency and help reduce your petrol costs.

3. Inspect your lights
Darker evenings and fog can make it more difficult to see, and be seen, on the roads. Make sure all your lights are all working, and replace any broken bulbs.

It's also important you ensure your windscreen and mirrors are clean, your wiper blades are in good condition and to top up your screenwash if necessary. Always check your windows are completely clear of ice before you go on your way. However, avoid using hot water on your windows as this can cause your screen to crack.

4. Look under the bonnet
During the winter months, it's important to keep a close eye on your car's oil, brake fluid and anti freeze levels.

Ensure you also check the battery is charged and in good condition as you will be using your heater and lights more, making your battery work harder.

5. Pack an emergency kit
Put together an emergency survival kit and keep it in your car in case you break down or have an accident. Include items such as a warm coat, blanket, torch, first aid kit, food and a fully charged mobile phone.

Make sure you also have the telephone number for your breakdown service and car insurance company close to hand.

6. Watch out for frosting
With frosty mornings often comes an increase in car crime.

Opportunist thieves roam the icy streets looking for vehicles left unattended while their owner warms up the engine and then goes back inside the house to get ready for work.

This is known as 'frosting.' Be aware that if your car is stolen and you had left your keys in the ignition.

7. Allow extra time
In icy and frosty conditions it's important to keep your speed down and keep a safe distance between you and the car in front. You should normally allow 2 seconds between you and the vehicle in front, but this should be doubled in bad weather conditions.

Remember that other drivers are likely to be travelling at a slower pace, so try to be patient. Plan your journey carefully in advance, check the weather before you leave and always allow extra time to reach your destination.

Make sure you pay extra attention to the road and try not to brake or accelerate suddenly - especially when you are going around corners.

8. Check your cover
Now is a good time to go through your car insurance policy with a fine tooth comb and check you have the right level of cover for you.

Finally, it's a sensible idea to consider investing in breakdown cover. This will offer you peace of mind that if you do break down on a cold, dark winter's night, you will not be left stranded in the middle of nowhere.

Citroen won the small car award and Fiat's Twin Air engine won the "Engine of the Year" with it's intuitive Twin Air.

The full list (see below) is in this month's Top Gear Magazine, with the photo shoot for it taking place at the Forbidden City in China.

Winners list

Car of the Year and Small Car of the Year - Citroen DS3
Hypercar of the Year - Koenigsegg Agera
Cabrio of the Year - Maserati GranCabrio
Grand Tourer of the Year - Bentley Continental GT
Hot Hatch of the Year - Volkswagen Golf R
Family Car of the Year - BMW 5 Series Touring
Engine of the Year - Fiat Twin Air
Coupé of the Year - Peugeot RCZ
Luxury Car of the Year - Jaguar XJ
Jeremy's Car of the Year - Pagani Zonda R
James's Car of the Year - Bugatti Veyron Super Sport
Richard's Car of the Year - Porsche 911 GT2 RS