Ice driving tips

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4 November 2011

Driver training specialist IAM Drive & Survive is offering weekly motoring tips to drivers from its head of training, Simon Elstow. This week, he is advising on driving on ice. 

 

Elstow said: “Now is the time to start thinking about how to deal with wintry weather, so that when it comes along you are ready for it.”

 

Elstow offers six tips to drive confidently in icy conditions:

  1. Check if your vehicle has ABS or ESP. These systems require a different approach when driving in ice and snow. You can use your manual for further information.
  2. Ensure you have de-icer and a scraper.  Before setting off, make sure you clean any ice or condensation from all the windows so that your visibility is clear.  Air conditioning is very good at demisting a vehicle.
  3. When you set off on level ground or downhill consider using second gear, releasing the clutch and accelerating gently.  Try to park and stop your vehicle where you don’t have to start uphill.
  4. As you drive, stay in higher gears to minimise the possibility of wheel spin.
  5. Stopping distances are increased by up to 10 times in icy conditions, so leave more distance than usual between your car and the car in front.
  6. If your car loses grip, take your foot off the accelerator, disengage the clutch and steer smoothly. 

Elstow said: “We all need to respect the weather and make adjustments to deal with it.  Being mentally prepared as well as having the right equipment is vital, so think about last year, what problems it caused you, and what you need to do to overcome them if they come this year.”

 

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Notes to editors:

 

1.     drivingadvice.org.uk

  1. IAM Drive & Survive is a commercial subsidiary of the IAM and promotes occupational driver skills and safety for vehicle fleets businesses. IAM Drive & Survive helps employers achieve their duty of care to employees and reduce road accidents while driving on business. The IAM is the UK’s largest independent road safety charity, dedicated to improving standards and safety in driving, motorcycle riding and cycling.  The IAM has more than 100,000 members in the UK and Ireland. It is best known for the advanced driving test and the advanced driving, motorcycling and cycling courses.  Our policy and research division offers advice and expertise on road safety.
  2. For information about IAM Drive & Survive phone 0870 120 2910 or visit http://www.iamdriveandsurvive.co.uk

 

Media contacts:

IAM Drive and Survive Press Office – 020 8996 9777

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