Winter weather - drivers warned to take extra care on the roads
Thu 9th February 2017
With snow and wintry showers forecast to continue in the East Riding for the next few days, drivers are warned to take extra care on the roads.
East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s gritting teams were sent out twice last night (Wednesday 9 February) after rain washed away the initial treatment.
The gritting lorries are likely to be needed over the next few nights as wintery conditions are forecast to persist.
The council is urging motorists to take extra care of potential slippery road conditions over the next few days.
Mike Featherby, the council’s head of streetscene services, said: “Our winter maintenance team will continue to monitor weather conditions and will deploy our gritting lorries to treat where necessary.
“We would advise drivers to take extra care, plan their journey in advance and allow extra time for travel.”
The council is issuing the following advice to help residents drive safely during winter conditions:
Driving on snow, ice and slush:
Drive slowly using the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin.
Manoeuvre gently, avoid sudden braking or acceleration.
When slowing down, get into a low gear as early as possible and allow your speed to reduce using the brake pedal gently.
Leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front. Remember, in these conditions it can take 10 times longer to stop than on a dry road.
Driving in winter sun:
Dazzle from the winter sun is an underestimated hazard. Carry sunglasses to help reduce the glare.
Driving in fog:
Drive slowly using dipped headlights or fog lights.
Do not drive too closely to the vehicle in front.
Do not speed up if the fog suddenly lifts, it drifts rapidly and is often patchy.
In difficult conditions:
Do not drive unless you absolutely need to.
Check weather forecasts and travel information.
If possible, tell someone when you expect to arrive.
Make sure you are equipped for your journey with warm clothing, food, a torch, a shovel, water, boots, a hazard warning triangle and a fully charged hands free mobile phone.
