WITH wintry conditions hitting Worcestershire, Warwickshire and the West Midlands today, conditions for this morning’s rush hour could become treacherous for drivers.
A number of local authorities sent out gritting lorries last night for the first time this season, which should be a signal for motorists to take care as they navigate the highways.
Although the region is not the heaviest hit, with snow fall further north and in Scotland, Rhydian Jones, motor expert at Confused.com car insurance, has outlined how drivers can stay safe on the roads.
“It’s recommended not to drive if the roads are bad, but this can’t always be helped. If you do need to drive, these tips could help:
· Allow plenty of time for your journey as you may need to drop your speed to navigate trickier road conditions
· If you can, stick to major roads as they’re more likely to be gritted
· When driving, accelerate gently, and get to the highest gear as quickly as you can
· Leave as much as 10 times the recommended stopping distance between you and the car in front
· If you skid, steer into it gently. Don’t slam on the brakes.
· Use dipped headlights in heavy snow to ensure lights on the back of your car are showing.
“With warnings of extreme weather, you should also check your car is prepared for safe journeys.
“That includes checking you have enough tread on your tyres, having enough fuel or power, and having a breakdown kit in your car in case of emergencies. For more helpful advice, our guide to driving in the snow can help you best prepare to keep safe on the roads.”
For more advice from Confused.com about driving in wintry conditions, click here.
