Icy Road

Black ice isn't always visible and so can be an even greater hazard for both motorists and pedestrians. Black ice may be formed when rain or drizzle fall on a road surface which is at a temperature below zero. When snow or icy roads are forecast you should adjust your driving to suit the conditions, make sure you know what to do.

Before snow or ice

If you have to make a journey when snow is forecast, make sure you have warm clothes, food, water, boots, a torch and spade, and let someone know when you expect to arrive and your route.
Try to wait until the roads have been gritted before travelling.

During snow or ice

Avoid travel if possible, if you must drive be careful:

Take care around gritters.
Don't be tempted to overtake.
Slow down - it can take 10 times longer to stop in snowy or icy conditions, so allow extra room.
Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin.
Manoeuvre gently and avoid harsh braking and acceleration.
If you start to skid, gently ease off the accelerator and avoid braking.
If braking is necessary, pump the brakes don't slam them on.
If you get stuck, stay with your car and tie something brightly coloured to your aerial.

After snow and ice

Be careful when walking or driving on compacted snow - it may have turned to ice.