RAC survey comes as warnings for snow and ice remain in place
Nearly 40% of motorists would still get behind the wheel regardless of the amount of snow on the roads, according to an RAC survey of 2,300 drivers.
The team’s research found that three in ten respondents have been in a situation where they’ve lost control of their cars in snow.
With weather warnings for snow and ice in place until at least Saturday, the RAC says its research illustrates the extent to which snow and ice can affect drivers.
It adds that most road users will still using their vehicles for trips they regard as essential with 68% saying they continue to drive during yellow Met Office warnings. Amber alerts see the figure falls to 63% during more serious amber ones.
The survey also found that nearly one in ten motorists choose not to drive during yellow warnings (a figure that rises to 22% during times of amber warnings).
Three in every four drivers surveyed say they drive much more cautiously whenever there is snow on the roads – with just 1% stating they would not adjust their driving style to take account of the conditions. One in ten drivers say they don’t drive at all if there is any snow on the roads.
During the current cold snap, the RAC is reminding drivers to check their vehicles and adjust their driving styles according to the conditions – and not take any risks that put them and their passengers in danger.
Rating local councils for gritting on icy nights
The RAC also asked drivers to rate their local council when it comes to ‘gritting’ (spreading salt) on the roads on icy nights.
Half of respondents (51%) described their local authority as ‘very good’ or ‘good’ with 36% saying they were ‘fair’ and 12% providing a ‘poor’ rating.
‘We know from long-running RAC studies that the vast majority of drivers, a consistent eight in ten, are heavily reliant on their cars,’ explains Rod Dennis, RAC Breakdown spokesperson.
He adds people become more reliant on their vehicles when the weather turns icy, or snowy, as issues around public transport may mean drivers have no choice but to use their cars for trips they consider essential.
The RAC says drivers should follow guidance when a severe weather warning is issued – especially if it is an amber or even rare red warning.
“If a driver has made the decision that it is safe to set out in snow and ice, it’s important drivers always check their cars and adjust their driving styles to cope with whatever wintry conditions are thrown at them.’
‘A car’s braking distance can increase by up to 10 times when there’s snow and ice on a road, meaning it’s vital to check all tyres have plenty of tread and slow down considerably to reduce the chances of a collision.’
‘Councils have an incredibly important part to play when it comes to preparing the roads during cold snaps, so it’s good to see a relatively small number of drivers rate their local authority’s gritting services as poor.’
‘On the other hand, drivers seem much less satisfied with their council’s ability to clear accumulations of snow, but fortunately that’s something that’s not needed very often across most of the UK.’
‘It’s vital people take precautions to stay safe in severe weather,’ explains Stephen Dixon, Met Office spokesperson.
‘Our weather warnings highlight when people could be impacted by the weather and there are a number of things people can do to minimise disruption, including checking travel plans, ensuring vehicles are safe as well as making sure your house is prepared for severe weather.’
‘Winter weather hazards like snow and ice can be particularly impactful on travel conditions, so it’s always best to check the travel advice in your area before setting off on journeys when severe weather is in the forecast.’
