Travelling safely

Despite our best efforts, winter weather can still make roads treacherous and there is no guarantee that roads will always be completely free of ice and snow. The key to safer driving this winter is to make sure you and your mode of transport are fully prepared and to make sure you always travel with due care for the weather and condition of the roads.

Unexpected icy patches

Never assume a road has been gritted. We treat the main routes which add up to around 1/3 of all roads, but even after being gritted they can still be icy. Take particular care on untreated surfaces and be prepared for the road conditions to change over relatively short distances.

Icy stretches can suddenly develop on treated and untreated surfaces. This is caused by water running off fields onto the road, or other sources. These icy patches can be hard to spot especially if there is dazzle from winter sun and black ice can hardly be seen at all.

We put up 'Beware Ice' signs where we know about these icy patches on the roads we treat but we can't identify them all so please be constantly alert and looking out for them.

Tyre safety

By regularly performing these three simple tyre checks, motorists can protect themselves and others on the road, reducing the risk of accidents during dangerous winter conditions.

Remember to ACT. Air Pressure, Condition and Tread.

• Air Pressure: Ensure your tyres are properly inflated. Under-inflated tyres reduce fuel efficiency and can negatively impact handling, especially on slippery roads.
• Condition: Check your tyres for cuts, bulges, or other signs of damage that could lead to a blowout or loss of control, particularly in harsh winter conditions.
• Tread: Ensure your tyres meet the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6mm. The deeper the tread, the better your tyres will grip the road, especially in rain, snow and ice.

If you want to learn more about tyre safety, check out our Tyre Safety page.

Winter driving

In addition to tyre safety, drivers should take additional precautions during the winter months to stay safe on the roads. Below are some useful winter driving tips:

1. Reduce speed – Wet, icy, or snowy roads require slower speeds and increased stopping distances.
2. Increase stopping distance – Brake gently and maintain a greater distance from the vehicle in front to prevent skidding.
3. Clear windscreens -Ensure your windscreen is fully defrosted, and your wiper blades are in good condition to maintain visibility.
4. Use headlights properly – In low visibility conditions like heavy rain or snow, make sure your headlights are turned on. Consider using fog lights if conditions worsen.
5. Check your battery – Cold weather can affect your vehicle’s battery, so ensure it’s in good working condition to avoid breakdowns.

Winter checklist

Winter can be hard on vehicles and it's a possibility you could break down in the cold and wet. We have put together this checklist of things to keep in your vehicle for you to prep now and ensure you're ready for anything.

• De-icer and ice scraper
• Portable phone charger
• Bottled water
• Non-perishable foods such as granola and protein bars
• Spare warm clothes
• Rain poncho or waterproof coat
• Jump leads
• Winter grade washer fluid
• Hi-vis jacket

Don’t block our gritters, please!

If you park your car on a main road or gritting route during winter, please make sure it's not causing an obstruction.

Blocked roads could mean we are unable to grit or grit that road and could also mean your vehicle is at risk of damage if our gritters have to manoeuvre around your vehicle.