Advice from both the RAC and the Institute of Advanced Motorists for safe driving in icy and sub-zero conditions:
Tyres should be checked as traction is crucial
Charge mobile phones fully before leaving and pack blankets, warm clothes and water
Windscreens and lights should be clear of any snow before setting off
Slow down, steer gently and avoid harsh turns, braking or acceleration
Keep a safe distance between themselves and other vehicles, four times more than usual
Look well ahead to anticipate problems
When pulling away, use 2nd gear if possible to avoid wheel spin
When braking, get into a low gear earlier than normal, allowing the speed to fall, and use the brake pedal gently
If in a skid, turn the steering into the skid, easing off the accelerator but not braking suddenly
When cornering, allow the speed to reduce well before bends and corners by easing off the accelerator. Try to avoid using the accelerator in rounding a corner as it may cause wheel spin and result in a skid
When encountering black ice - which though not visible can be detected because the steering will feel light and/or the noise created by the tyres on the road will cease - reduce speed by easing off the accelerator rather than braking
Full story - The Telegraph 15/12/10
BBC - 21/12/10
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