Specifically the RSA has issued the following advice for drivers;
• It takes longer to stop a vehicle on icy roads so slow down and allow extra distance between you and the vehicle in front.
• Clear your windows and mirrors before you set out, carry a screen scraper and de-icer. Do not use hot water on the windscreen as it can crack the glass.
• Remove ALL snow from your vehicle before commencing your journey.
• Snow left on the roof will become loose and can drop onto the windscreen during braking, thereby causing sudden and severe restriction to your vision.
• It can also fall off during your drive and cause injury to pedestrians or a reflex action by another driver.
• Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin.
• Select a low gear when travelling downhill especially if through bends.
• Manoeuvre gently, avoid harsh braking and acceleration.
• To brake on ice or snow without locking your wheels, get into a low gear earlier than normal, using the clutch smoothly and allow your speed to fall and use the brake pedal gently.
• Remember that heavy snowfall will reduce visibility. Use dipped headlights and decrease speed smoothly.
• Watch out for black ice, especially in sheltered/shaded areas on roads, under trees and adjacent to high walls.
• Check tyres, including spare wheel, to ensure minimum tread depth of 1.6mm and correct tyre pressure.
• Check in your owners manual and find out if your vehicle has any safety assist technology like Electronic Stability Control (ESC) or Anti Lock Braking System (ABS) and know how they assist your driving.
