Driving In Winter Weather

Check

• local and national radio for travel information and weather forecasts allowing extra time for your journey if necessary
• the gritting routes map to avoid travelling on untreated roads
• all lights are clean and working properly
• All WINDOWS and mirrors are clear from frost and snow and are clean

In extreme conditions ask yourself

• Is your journey essential?
• Have you checked the weather forecast and road conditions and carefully considered the advice given?
• Have you a full fuel tank?
• Does anybody know where you are going and when you hope to arrive?
• Would taking warm clothing, hot drinks, food, wellingtons, a torch and shovel be a wise precaution?

Check You

• are travelling with care on both treated and untreated roads and reduce speed accordingly
• take particular care when leaving or joining untreated roads at junctions
• are you using dipped headlights in poor visibility and snow
• are driving in the highest gear possible and avoid harsh breaking and acceleration
• are maintaining a safe stopping distance behind other vehicles bearing in mind the prevailing conditions
• are keeping a careful watch on other road users and especially cyclists and children
• are not obstructing winter maintenance vehicles as they treat the roads

If you get into trouble

• stay with your vehicle if possible until help arrives
• if you do have to leave your vehicle make yourself visible to other road users
• if you are forced to abandon your vehicle give the local police the details