Cotswolds News
Drivers urged to be careful as snow approaches
2:49pm Thursday 9th February 2012
Motorists across Worcestershire are bracing themselves for more difficult driving conditions during the next 48 hours as forecasts predict further snow and cold weather.
The Met Office is warning snow could hit the region tomorrow and combined with sub-zero temperatures could cause travel disruption.
Katy Jenkins of the Safer Roads Partnership said: "There is currently a yellow alert for snow for the West Midlands area which includes Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Shropshire. Motorists will need to take extra care if weather and road conditions deteriorate over the next 48 hours. Vehicle handling can change considerably, regardless of the type of vehicle, and it takes much longer to slow down on wet, icy or snowy roads. Steering may become unresponsive and if this happens, ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually. Braking sharply on an icy road will only make the situation worse and could cause the brakes to lock and the car to skid."
"It is advisable to allow more time when pulling out of junctions, entering roundabouts and when merging with flowing traffic to enable you to do so smoothly, rather than accelerating quickly and risking wheel spin if the road is icy or slippery. "Also, look ahead and try to anticipate what other road users might do at junctions, traffic lights and roundabouts."
The partnership is also advising drivers to pack an emergency kit in case of breakdown or delay. It should include an ice-scraper, torch, warm clothes and a blanket, a pair of boots, a first aid kit, battery jump leads, a shovel for snow, food and drink and sunglasses to help see in low winter sun. Motorists are also advised to make sure their mobile phone is fully charged before heading off on a journey.
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