Many motorists are wary when the winter arrives and temperatures drop. Driving conditions can worsen quickly leaving people having to negotiate ice or snow on the roads.
And while often the motorways and other major routes can clear quickly as a result of volume of traffic there are still times it can be hard to drive in. Motoring experts the AA have some tips for drivers on how to stay safe - and how to get out of difficulty if you become stuck.
Posting on its website it says: "The roads can be dangerous in winter when there's snow, ice or sleet. Our top tip is to take it slow. Stopping distances can be 10 times longer when it's icy. Gentle manoeuvres and slow speeds are the key to safe driving in ice and snow.
"In the season of winter colds, don't drive with a cold if you're feeling unwell and are on any medicine that could make you drowsy. It could affect your reaction times."
It has some key advice for people heading out advising them to do several things before they set off. These include:
Once you are on your way it also explains the best way to stay safe and get to your destination. It advises:
And there is one other key bit of information which could prove essential. It explains you should carry an old rug or sack with you as it can help get you going if you find yourself stuck.
It says: "If you get stuck, straighten the steering and clear the snow from the wheels. Put a sack or old rug in front of the driving wheels to give the tyres some grip."
