Motorists warned to take care in snow

News from our partners West Mercia Safer Roads Partnership

With yet further snow forecast over the Midlands region tonight (Friday 22 March 2013) and into Saturday, the Safer Roads Partnership in Warwickshire and West Mercia is reminding motorists to take extra care on the roads over the weekend.  The Met Office has issued an amber warning of further snow in the region and the potential for travel disruption.  

Driving in icy and snowy conditions can be challenging for drivers as vehicle handling changes and stopping times and distances increase.  When roads are slippery, it can take up to ten times longer for your vehicle to come to a stop. 

Vicki Bristow, Communications Manager for the Safer Roads Partnership, said:

“If you do need to travel take extra care on the roads and ensure your vehicle is in good running order before you leave.  Vehicle handling can change considerably, and it takes much longer to slow down on icy and slippery roads.  Reduce your speed, keep well back from the vehicle in front and allow plenty of time to slow down.  Steering may become unresponsive and if this happens, ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually. Braking sharply on an icy or wet road will only make the situation worse and could cause the brakes to lock and the car to skid.

“With more snow forecast tonight and into the weekend, there is the potential for some travel disruption and the public are advised to watch or listen to local news for updates and be prepared to alter their travel plans.”