Stay safe: Top tips for driving in snowy and icy conditions
By Mary Dennehy
AA Ireland is calling on motorists to exercise caution when driving over the coming days as weather conditions are expected to worsen significantly – with a heightened risk of frost, ice and snow.
On Monday, Met Eireann issued a Status Orange weather warning for the east of the country from Tuesday (today) into Wednesday morning – with a nationwide Status Yellow Weather Advisory to remain in place until at least Saturday.
With driving and weather conditions expected to worsen significantly, motorists are being urged by AA Ireland to slow down, allow extra stopping distance between their car and the car in front, and to expect poor visibility conditions if driving in falling snow.
Conor Faughnan, AA Director of Consumer Affairs, also advised to add an extra 15 minutes onto normal commute times and to use that extra time to “get your windows clear, as well as making allowances for the extra traffic you are likely to see on key routes”.
Carzone has also encouraged motorists to prepare for trips, with preparation “key” to staying safe on the roads in hazardous weather.
Carzone has provided its Top Tips for driving in snowy and icy conditions –
Only drive when it’s necessary!
Plan your route: Stick to the main roads which are safer and more likely to be gritted.
Get a full tank of fuel: Then if you do happen to get stranded you can keep the engine running to keep warm.
Make sure your car is fit to travel: Check basic items, like all your fluids are topped up and your tyres aren’t worn out.
Clear the entire windscreen with de-icer fluid or scraper, not just a peephole: Make sure the window wipers aren’t stuck to the window. Also clear the side and rear mirrors, front and back lights, door mirrors and number plate.
Clear any snow off the roof of your car: This can easily slide down while driving and block your view again.
Steer, accelerate and brake smoothly: Abrupt changes and manoeuvres can result in loss of grip and control.
Listen to the surface: If the sudden crunch of driving on snow stops, you may be on ice.
If you skid: Don’t break, this may prolong the skid. Take your foot of the accelerator and way for the skid to stop. If you begin to spin, steer in the car in the direction the rear of your car is sliding. Don’t overcorrect, or you’ll need to turn in the opposite direction
Bring a bag of supplies: Be prepared for any problems or delays. Bring food, water, warm clothes, a blanket, torch, first aid kit, fully charged mobile phone, jump leads, shovel, ice scraper, de-icing fluid and grit/sand/cat litter (for traction if you get stuck).
Motorists can keep up to date with the latest on traffic and routes affected by the weather conditions over the coming days by visiting the AA Roadwatch Newsroom HERE.
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