Tips for safer driving in the snow

Fully clearing windscreens, increasing distances from the vehicle in front and avoiding high revs are among tips for driving in snow issued by a road safety charity. IAM Roadsmart urged motorists to avoid travelling in extreme weather if they could.

Before setting off, drivers should clear all snow from the windows, mirrors, roof and bonnet of their car to stop it obscuring their view. Cars should be started gently. If roads are icy, motorists should move off in a higher gear rather than first gear to avoid wheel spin.

It is more important than normal to drive at the appropriate speed when there is snow on the ground.

Driving too fast risks a loss of control, while driving too slowly means a car may not have enough momentum to get up a slope.

The fact it could take up to ten times as long to stop on snow or ice should be taken into account when judging the safe distance from the vehicle in front. IAM Roadsmart’s head of driving advice Richard Gladman also called on drivers to take appropriate supplies and equipment with them.