AA Travel Advice – Snow And Ice

Chris Wood, AA Patrol of the Year, says:
“If you need to travel, reduce your speed to account for the conditions and leave plenty of space behind other vehicles, and try to use main roads where possible as these are more likely to have been gritted. Allow extra time, as it’s likely your journey will take longer than usual, and ensure you have plenty of fuel or electrical charge if driving an electric vehicle (EV).

“Before setting off, check the condition of your tyres (including the spare). It’s important to fully de-ice the car which includes clearing snow from the windows, lights and roof so you can see and be seen. If you own an EV, you can preserve range by defrosting your vehicle while it’s still on charge.

“It’s also worth having winter essentials in the car such as warm, waterproof layers, a shovel, a torch, and a flask of hot drink. Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged and download the AA app and what3words to help us get to you faster if the worst should happen.

“The cold snap is likely to affect vehicle breakdown levels, with faults such as flat batteries and wiper faults.”

Louise Thomas, from Confused.com car insurance, comments:
“As snow is expected to fall in parts of the country from Thursday, drivers should be wary of potentially dangerous road conditions. 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
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.”