🚗 Driver Advisory:
Travel Disruptions:
❄️ Snowfall may cause delays on roads, with a possibility of vehicles and passengers becoming stranded. It's advisable to plan your route, checking for delays and road closures, and adjust your travel plans accordingly.
Pedestrian Hazards:
🚶 Untreated pavements and cycle paths may become impassable. Exercise caution when walking or cycling.
Recommendations for Drivers:
🔧 Ensure your vehicle is prepared for winter conditions, including checking tire pressure and tread depth.
🎒 Carry essential items such as warm clothing, food, water, a blanket, a torch, an ice scraper/de-icer, a warning triangle, a high-visibility vest, and an in-car phone charger.
⏰ Allow extra time for your journey and keep updated with the latest weather forecasts.
🚗 Driving on Snow and Ice:
🐢 Slow Down:
🚙 Reduce your speed significantly to ensure better control of the vehicle on slippery surfaces.
⚠️ Drive at a speed that allows you to stop safely in case of an emergency.
↔️ Increase Following Distance:
📏 Increase the distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you. On icy roads, it takes much longer to stop, so aim for a 6-8 second gap.
🛑 Avoid Sudden Movements:
⚖️ Avoid sudden steering, braking, or acceleration. Smooth, gradual movements give you better control on icy or snowy roads.
🔄 When turning, use a slow and gentle steering motion to prevent the wheels from losing grip.
🔽 Use Low Gears:
🔧 In slippery conditions, driving in a lower gear (like second or third) can give you more control and reduce the risk of spinning the wheels.
🚗 If you drive a manual car, avoid revving the engine too high when starting, as it can cause the wheels to spin.
👀 Use Anticipation:
🛑 Look ahead for potential hazards (like patches of ice or vehicles coming to a stop). By anticipating these, you can react more smoothly and avoid panic braking or sudden turns.
❄️ Braking on Ice and Snow:
🚨 If your vehicle is equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake normally and allow the system to do its work. Do not pump the brakes, as this can reduce effectiveness.
❄️ If you don’t have ABS, gently pump the brake to avoid skidding.
🚙 If your car begins to skid, release the brake or gas pedal and steer gently in the direction you want the vehicle to go.
💡 Use Your Lights:
💡 Always drive with your headlights on, even during the day, to increase your visibility. Snow and fog can reduce visibility drastically.
⚠️ Watch Out for Black Ice:
🧊 Black ice is nearly invisible and very dangerous. It’s often found in shaded areas of the road or bridges, where water collects and freezes more easily.
🚧 If you suspect black ice, reduce speed and avoid sudden movements, particularly in areas like junctions or on curves.
🛑 Prepare for Stopping:
⏳ When stopping, do so well in advance of a stop sign, red light, or any obstacle. Braking on snow and ice will take much longer, and starting again on a slippery surface can be tricky.
🏔️ If you need to stop on an incline, try to avoid stopping altogether. Maintain a low, steady speed so you don’t have to restart on a slippery slope.
🚫 Avoid Cruise Control:
🚗 On slippery roads, cruise control can be dangerous as it doesn’t allow you to adjust your speed in response to changing conditions. Keep full control of the vehicle.
🔧 Tires and Chains:
🏁 If you're in an area with severe snow or ice, consider snow tires or tire chains. Snow tires have better traction on snow and ice than regular tires.
🛠️ Ensure the tire tread depth is sufficient (minimum of 3mm for winter conditions).
🚙 Use the Handbrake Properly:
🚫 Don’t use the handbrake while moving in icy or snowy conditions unless absolutely necessary, as it can cause the wheels to lock and reduce control.
🧘 Stay Calm and Focused:
🌬️ Driving in these conditions can be stressful, but staying calm, focused, and driving with patience is essential for your safety and others'.
Comments