Extreme weather signals hazardous driving conditions

11 December 2009

Winter driving advice from Green Flag

Following the Met Office’s warning of an impending cold snap and a chance of snow across the UK next week, vehicle rescue and recovery expert Green Flag is advising motorists to avoid all non-essential road travel if snowfall causes hazardous driving conditions and to ensure that they are prepared should the worst happen.

To help combat a potential breakdown epidemic, Green Flag is advising drivers to ensure their cars are equipped with enough fuel, anti-freeze, screen wash, oil and other essentials ahead of the Christmas break.

For those motorists who must use the roads, Green Flag has some top tips to help prepare for hazardous driving conditions:

  • Keep an eye on the local and national weather forecasts before heading out on the roads
  • Allow extra time before and during your journey
  • Ensure you have plenty of fuel; if you run out your car gets cold very quickly
  • Beware of black ice, taking extra care in shaded areas
  • Use major roads for journeys rather than smaller, quieter roads, which are more likely to be untreated
  • Keep warm clothes or a blanket in the car just in case you get ‘snowed in’
  • Ensure tyres are in good condition and have adequate (and legal) tread depth (1.6mm) to ensure maximum traction on wet or slippery roads
  • Once caught in deep snow, do not rev or 'gun' the engine, as this will cause the wheels to dig deeper into the snow. Instead, put the car into as high a gear as possible and slowly manoeuvre the car lightly forwards and backwards to gently creep out of the snow
  • If you are stuck fast in snow, stay in the car, unless help is visible within 100 yards
  • Make sure that your phone is charged and that you have the Green Flag number to hand

Dan Robinson, Head of Green Flag comments, “We advise motorists to avoid non-essential travel if the winter weather causes hazardous driving conditions. However, we know that it is not always possible to do this. In these sorts of circumstances take your time on the roads, keep your distance from the car in front and give more warning than usual to other drivers when turning, stopping or changing lanes, even if the roads are gritted.

“Motorists should plan for the worst, allowing extra time for their journeys and carrying warm clothing just in case they find themselves stuck or broken down. Having adequate breakdown cover is key to minimising the stress of a breakdown situation, and we will attend even if you do get stuck in the snow, unlike some other breakdown providers. If you haven’t got cover and you need help, do still give us a call as ‘instant cover’ is always available.”

For further tips and advice on driving in winter, visit the Winter Drivetime Magazine section of the Green Flag web site.

For further information please contact:
Vicky Perry
RBS Insurance
Tel: 020 8313 5741
Email: vicki.perry@rbs.co.uk

Green Flag

With over 30 years experience, Green Flag provides customers with rapid breakdown cover 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Customers have access to a national network of thousands of independent recovery agents in the UK and mainland Europe.

Green Flag is part of RBS Insurance, the second largest general insurer in the UK and is wholly owned by the Royal Bank of Scotland Group. Customers can find out more about Green Flag products or get a quote by calling 0845 246 1557 or visiting www.greenflag.com.

Green Flag Motoring Assistance breakdown cover is underwritten by Direct Line Insurance plc which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Registered office: 3 Edridge Road, Croydon, Surrey, CR9 1AG. Registered in England No. 1810801. FSA registered No. 202684. The Financial Services Authority's Register.