Winter Driving

Together we can make the difference

In Winter Play Your Part

Despite the high level of service, no guarantee can be given that roads will always be completely free of snow and ice. Our precautionary salt routes can be found on our Internet mapping system MARIO under the heading highways, just find your location and then click on highways and then precautionary salt routes.

Some roads carry high volumes of traffic and congestion can occur at peak periods. In adverse weather when there is congestion, difficult and dangerous driving conditions may occur.

Although forecasting systems have improved, sudden weather changes still occur and motorists should be aware that:

• Access to the network is not always possible
• It takes time for the salt to become effective after roads are salted
• Rain can wash salt off roads leaving them prone to re-icing
• In severe weather even salt will not prevent roads from icing up
• Take account of Prevailing Weather Conditions

The following advice is given for those driving during the winter months and especially during periods of severe weather:

Before commencing your journey

• Check the weather forecasts
• Consider if the journey is necessary
• Consider alternative routes
• Allow a time for the journey which relates to the weather conditions

During journey

• Reduce speed as appropriate
• Observe safe stopping distances
• Avoid sudden acceleration and braking
• Use dipped headlights in poor conditions
• Take breaks every 2/3 hours - driver fatigue can impair judgement
  

Equipment to carry on long journeys

• Additional warm clothing
• Torch
• Rug or blanket
• Shovel
• Flask of hot drink or food
• Radio
  

Action if stranded

• If stopped, try and ensure that your vehicle will not block access for emergency vehicles (Abandoned and stationary vehicles are the main causes of gritters being obstructed)
• Remain with vehicle unless shelter is nearby
• Maintain your circulation by moving your body
• Use engine to keep warm, unless exhaust cannot vent. If exhaust cannot vent, SWITCH OFF ENGINE.
• Ensure that airway is maintained if snowed over