Brake: Follow the ABC of winter driving

Brake: Follow the ABC of winter driving

The road safety charity Brake is advising motorists in the UK to follow the ABC of safe winter driving as the country experiences a harsh cold snap.

Heavy snow across Britain is causing travel problems and Brake is keen for drivers to be as safe as possible when behind the wheel.

The ABC of safe driving follows as such: "avoiding" heading out when the conditions are dangerous; "being prepared" by keeping an eye on the news, as well as having an emergency kit; and being "careful" when driving by keeping a safe distance away from other motorists.

Julie Townsend, Brake deputy chief executive, said that the most important message is to "err on the side of caution" and simply not drive if it's snowing.

"Ice, snow, heavy rain and fog make driving incredibly risky; stopping distances double in the wet and can increase ten-fold in ice and snow, and if you can't see clearly you can't react to hazards," she added.

"We are also urging drivers to be prepared. Listen to forecasts, and make sure your vehicle is properly maintained and kitted out. If you get caught in bad weather the most critical thing is to slow right down and keep your distance, bearing in mind it will take you much longer to stop in an emergency."

Posted by Sebastian Turkenburg