Those hit by snow 'should avoid unnecessary travel'

Date: 30/11/2010

People in areas affected by snow should not travel unless "completely necessary", according to the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM).

With the Met Office issuing severe weather warnings today (November 30th) for the East Midlands and London and snow forecast for the rest of the week, Chief Examiner Peter Rodger suggested Britons work from home or change their schedule to avoid commuting.

He also urged individuals not to ignore police warnings or advice to steer clear of specific routes if they do decide to drive.

Furthermore, people should make sure they have all-round visibility before setting off and take the time to clear snow from car roofs, the IAM stated.

It stressed the importance of driving at the correct speed in snowy conditions, as vehicles need to be going fast enough to maintain momentum if it is needed, but slow enough to ensure there is no risk of losing control.

Further advice for freezing weather came from the Driving Instructors' Association recently, which urged people to drive in a higher gear than normal to reduce the risk of wheels slipping.

Posted by Mary Treen