Driving in adverse weather conditions

Tips for driving in the snow and ice

Do not drive in these conditions unless your journey is essential. If it is, take great care and allow more time for your journey. Things to take with you are, de-icer and ice scraper, torch warm clothing and boots, first aid kit, jump leads and a shovel, together with a warm drink and emergency food in case you break down or get stuck in the snow.

Things you must do before you set off

The highway code tells you:

1. You must be able to see, so clear all snow and ice from your windows
2. You must ensure that lights are clean and number plates are clearly visible and legible
3. Make sure the mirrors are clear and the windows are demisted thoroughly
4. Remove all snow that might fall off into the path of other road users
5. Check your planned route is clear of delays and that no further snowfalls or severe weather are predicted

When driving in snow or ice

• Drive with care even if the roads have been treated
• Keep well back from the road user in front as stopping distances can be ten times greater than on dry roads
• Drive extremely carefully when the roads are icy.

Avoid sudden actions as these could loss of control. You should:

1. Drive at a slow speed in a higher gear as possible; accelerate and brake very gently
2. Drive particularly slowly on bends where loss of control is more likely.
3. Check your grip on the road surface when there is snow or ice by choosing a safe place to brake gently. If the steering feels unresponsive this may indicate ice and your vehicle losing its grip on the road. when travelling on ice, tyres make virtually no noise.

According to surveys by the British Insurance brokers Association (BIBA) more and more young drivers are choosing to have the black box fitted to their cars, to reduce the cost of their insurance.

A number of insurance companies have priced premiums for those willing to have their driving monitored for speed, acceleration , braking and times of day the car is on the road.

Advantages:

A some young drivers saying they have saved thousands of pounds in premiums.

B Encouragement to learn to drive knowing they can afford the premium once they have passed the driving test.

Disadvantages:

A- The box is expensive to fit, average 500

B-Your insurance can rise steeply if you display poor driving behaviour.
But if you want to drive the way you are taught then there should not be a problem.

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T: 0161 343 5163
E: r.bottomley@btconnect.com

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