Green Flag's Winter Weather Driving Advice

29 November 2010

Following the Met Office’s warning of snow across the UK this weekend, Green Flag is advising motorists to ensure that they are fully prepared for the forecast winter weather.

Neil Wilson, head of rescue operations at Green Flag, comments, “We advise motorists to avoid all non-essential travel if the winter weather causes hazardous driving conditions. However, if you do have to drive in snow or icy conditions, make sure you allow extra time for your journey, take your time on the roads and ensure you have warm clothing and a mobile phone in case you breakdown or get stuck in the snow.

“From experience we know that the number of calls for rescue assistance can double in wintry conditions, so we monitor weather forecasts in advance and draft in extra staff both on the roads and on the phones to handle emergencies. If you haven’t got breakdown cover and you need help, do still give us a call as ‘instant cover’ is always available.”

For those motorists who must use the roads, Green Flag has some top tips for driving in hazardous weather conditions:
• Use the defroster and windshield wipers for better visibility. Ensure the blades are in good condition, with no splits, de-ice the screen completely and ensure the blades are not frozen to the screen before operating. Failure to do so may result in the protective fuse blowing. It is also worth adding an anti-freeze inhibitor to the screen wash fluid container
• Once on the road, check your speed and turn slowly, even if the roads have been gritted
• Give more warning than usual to other drivers when turning, stopping or changing lane
• Keep plenty of distance between cars. You never know when you'll hit an icy spot. If you pass the same landmarks as the car in front of you within three seconds, you are following too closely
• Pump the brakes slowly and gently if your car does not have anti-lock brakes. Constant pressure can cause them to lock and skid
• Be extra wary of black ice - it is an invisible danger that can catch out the most careful driver
• Approach corners at a steady speed, in as low a gear as possible. Don't touch the clutch unless it is absolutely necessary, steer smoothly and avoid braking on the bends

For further information or to arrange an interview please contact:
Vicky Perry
Green Flag Press Office
Tel: 020 8313 5741
Email: vicky.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, connecting via the Green Flag Rescue Me Application, or visiting 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 can be accessed through http://www.fsa.gov.uk