In light of the number of folks losing control I thought I would post this up for the less experienced drivers here -
Driving in winter
Good vehicle maintenance is particularly important in winter. Make sure your battery is fully charged, your tyres have plenty of tread and are the right pressure, and your wipers and lights work properly. Add anti-freeze to the radiator and top up screen wash.
Keep sunglasses handy - dazzle from winter sun can be dangerous. You should always carry a scraper and de-icer to clear windows and mirrors.
Ice and slush make driving particularly hazardous - it can take 10 times longer to stop than on a dry road.
When driving, use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin.
Manoeuvre gently, avoiding sudden braking or acceleration.
To brake without locking your wheels, get into low gear earlier than normal, allow your speed to fall and use the brake pedal gently.
Take care around winter maintenance vehicles. Keep a safe distance behind salting lorries and snow ploughs, and dont attempt to overtake. Watch out for banks of snow thrown up the plough.
In really bad snow, dont drive unless you absolutely need to. Check weather forecasts and travel information, and if possible tell someone when you expect to arrive. Make sure youre equipped with warm clothing, food, a torch and spade in case you get stuck.
Driving in fog
Drive slowly and use dipped headlights or fog lights.
Dont hang on to the tail-lights of the vehicle in front - you may be too close.
Dont speed up if it seems to be clearing; fog drifts rapidly and is often patchy.
Driving on flooded roads
Stay in first gear and drive slowly.
Slip the clutch to keep the engine speed high and avoid stalling.
If possible drive in the middle of the road to avoid deeper water near the kerb.
c/o - http://www.thinkroadsafety.gov.uk/advice/winterdriving.htmhttp://www.thinkroadsafety.gov.uk/advice/winterdriving.htm
