This week the teams in our London and Manchester offices have noticed a real dip in temperatures and an increase in enquiries about winter motoring issues. We find this is the time of year when unprepared drivers find themselves facing prosecution for motoring offences or even worse, involved in accidents that could have been avoided.
The Highway Code is not just for learner drivers but should be consulted every now and then even by the more experienced driver for the latest guidance on how to stay safe on the roads. Failure to follow the codes can be sufficient for the courts to find you guilty of careless driving carrying between 3-9 penalty points or a possible ban so it is worth taking a few moments to refresh your memory on some very useful tips from this extract from the Highway Code for winter driving:
Icy and snowy weather
228
In winter check the local weather forecast for warnings of icy or snowy weather. DO NOT drive in these conditions unless your journey is essential. If it is, take great care and allow more time for your journey. Take an emergency kit of de-icer and ice scraper, torch, warm clothing and boots, first aid kit, jump leads and a shovel, together with a warm drink and emergency food in case you get stuck or your vehicle breaks down.
229
Before you set off
• you MUST be able to see, so clear all snow and ice from all your windows
• you MUST ensure that lights are clean and number plates are clearly visible and legible
• make sure the mirrors are clear and the windows are demisted thoroughly
• remove all snow that might fall off into the path of other road users
• check your planned route is clear of delays and that no further snowfalls or severe weather are predicted
[Laws CUR reg 30, RVLR reg 23, VERA sect 43 & RV(DRM)R reg 11]
230
When driving in icy or snowy weather
• drive with care, even if the roads have been treated
• keep well back from the road user in front as stopping distances can be ten times greater than on dry roads
• take care when overtaking vehicles spreading salt or other de-icer, particularly if you are riding a motorcycle or cycle
• watch out for snowploughs which may throw out snow on either side. Do not overtake them unless the lane you intend to use has been cleared
• be prepared for the road conditions to change over relatively short distances
• listen to travel bulletins and take note of variable message signs that may provide information about weather, road and traffic conditions ahead
231
Drive extremely carefully when the roads are icy. Avoid sudden actions as these could cause loss of control. You should
• drive at a slow speed in as high a gear as possible; accelerate and brake very gently
• drive particularly slowly on bends where loss of control is more likely. Brake progressively on the straight before you reach a bend. Having slowed down, steer smoothly round the bend, avoiding sudden actions
• check your grip on the road surface when there is snow or ice by choosing a safe place to brake gently. If the steering feels unresponsive this may indicate ice and your vehicle losing its grip on the road. When travelling on ice, tyres make virtually no noise
We are happy to hear from motorists with any kind of motoring law enquiry, whether you are looking for guidance before you drive or after you have encountered a driving issue. We provide expert advice without charge so you have nothing to lose...call now 08000 85 27 84
No comments:
Post a Comment