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Is it safe to drive in the snow? Advice for driving and how to avoid an accident

The UK is currently being battered by snow and ice, but is it safe to drive? Here we issue advice for how to avoid an accident

The Met Office has issued a three day weather warning as parts of the country battles with snow .

Although snow days can be fun, the conditions can be problematic for motorists.

Driving on snow and ice can be dangerous as well as shovelling it!

Motorists can expect icy patches, especially on untreated roads.

Generally it is advised not to travel during snow and ice if you can avoid it.

However, sometimes it is essential for us to be able to travel.

If youre planning to drive anywhere it can be helpful to prepare before your journey and to know what to do.

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Is it safe to drive in the snow? Advice for driving and how to avoid an accident(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Here is advice and how to avoid an accident if you have to drive on snow and ice.

Is it safe to drive in the snow?

Before you head out, its always worth checking if the Met Office has issued any weather warnings.

They might advise whether or not it is safe to travel.

For example, today the Met Office has issued a yellow warning for ___, and said: Some roads and railways likely to be affected with longer journey times by road, bus and train services.

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It is advised not to drive unless necessary(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

However, it has not specifically advised against travelling.

The Met Office recommends to make sure you have warm clothes, food, water, boots, a torch and a spade before heading out.

Also let someone know when you expect to arrive.

During snow and ice, the Met Office says to avoid travel if possible.

However, if you have to drive take extra care.

The AA recommends to take it slow, and remember the stopping distance is 10 times longer on ice.

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Be careful on the road(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

It also says gentle manoeuvres are the key to safe driving in ice and snow.

It continued: Pull away in second gear, easing your foot off the clutch gently to avoid wheel-spin.

If you are driving uphill remember to leave plenty of room or wait until its clear so you dont have to stop halfway.

If youre travelling downhill slow down before the hill, use a low gear and avoid breaking.

If you have to use your breaks, the AA recommend to apply them gently.

But if you do get stuck, straighten the steering and clear the snow from the wheels.

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