Road safety professionals offer cold weather driving advice

In the light of the current inclement weather conditions the Local Authority Road Safety Officers’ Association (LARSOA) is warning drivers to take extra care whilst using the roads.
 
With the number of accidents occurring expected to surge as drivers are caught out by the icy roads, the association has issued guidance to help road users deal with the difficult conditions.
 
In addition to ensuring your speed and driving style is appropriate for the conditions, drivers should also:

Ensure all vehicle lights and wipers are in good working order

Keep lights, windows and mirrors clean and free from ice and snow

Add antifreeze to the radiator and winter additive to the windscreen washer bottles

Check that tyres have plenty of tread depth and are maintained at the correct pressure

Leave plenty of room between you and the car in front as hail, heavy snow and rain will reduce visibility and it can take ten times longer to stop in icy conditions than on a dry road.



David Frost, Press and PR Officer for LARSOA, said:
 
“First and foremost we would urge drivers only to travel if it is absolutely necessary. Think about your journey, your safety and that of others, before you take to the roads. If you are unsure, postpone your travel or look at alternative forms of transportation.
 
“Now the impact of the clocks going back is being felt and it gets dark during mid-afternoon when the weather is bad, more than any other time, it is essential that people take extra care on the roads, maintaining their vehicles at regular intervals and adjusting their driving to the conditions.”

LARSOA Spokespeople are available throughout the day for interview on this subject. Please Contact Pete Whelan on 07983 288388 to arrange.