Roads & Highways

Winter weather makes driving dangerous - but you can stay safer by following six important messages from the Highways Agency and the Department for Transport's Think road safety campaign:

1. In winter, our weather can change quickly. If there is severe weather don't travel unless your journey is essential. If you must drive, always be prepared for bad weather.

2. Plan your journey before you go. Check your route for delays and check the weather forecast. While you are driving listen to travel news on the radio. Information about current road conditions is on the Highways Agency's website.

3. In case you get stuck, keep these things in your car:
    * Warm clothes
    * Food and water
    * Boots
    * De-icer
    * Torch
    * Spade

4. Take care around gritters and vehicles that clear snow. Only overtake them if you can do so safely and without going on to uncleared snow.

5. It can take ten times longer to stop when it is icy, so allow more room to slow down and stop.

6. To avoid losing control of your car because of wheel spin, use the highest gear that you can. Avoid sudden braking, acceleration and sharp turns.

Remember that tiredness kills. Take regular breaks from driving.