Drivers issued warning as UK-wide snow storms loom – seven things you must do

Drivers planning to travel over the coming days have been urged to do seven things to keep safe. It comes after the Met Office issued a series of weather warnings for snow and ice beginning yesterday (Sunday, November 17) and lasting, in some parts of the country, until Wednesday (November 20).

Describing one warning affecting large parts of northern England and the Midlands from 7pm tonight until 10am tomorrow morning, the forecaster said: "A spell of snow may bring disruption during Monday night and Tuesday morning. Possible travel delays on roads stranding some vehicles and passengers. Possible delays or cancellations to rail and air travel."

With potential travel chaos looming, a TikToker has outlined some precautions motorists may want to take before and during journeys this week. PassMeFast shared seven things drivers should consider before taking to the roads.

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Take your time and plan ahead

Planning your journey can ensure you don't run into trouble on the roads. Some roads may face closure or be particularly slippery, while others may be hit by traffic.

Doing your research before you head out can help you to avoid delays as much as possible.

Control your speed

When roads are icy, it can become more difficult to keep a handle on your speed. You may want to consider driving slowly to minimise the likelihood of skidding on a patch of ice.

If you do skid, you will find it easier to regain control, meaning you are less likely to run into trouble.

Make room for longer stopping distances

Braking distances can increase by 10 times on icy roads, and tyres do not grip as efficiently in cold conditions as they do on dry roads. Drivers should leave up to 10 times the normal gap between their vehicle and the car ahead to minimise the chances of a crash.

Brake on bends

Drivers should accelerate and brake more gently in the cold, as cars are more difficult to control on wet or icy roads. Brake before you reach a bend, not on it, to make sure you maintain control as you navigate the change in direction.

Steer into skids

If you do skid on the road, you should steer in the direction of the skid. If your vehicle's rear wheels are sliding to the left, you should steer left, and the reverse applies if your rear wheels are sliding to the right.

Take your foot off the accelerator, but avoid braking as it can make a skid more dangerous. As you steer, your rear wheels may begin sliding in the opposite direction. If this happens, gently ease the steering wheel toward that side and straighten the wheel again once your car has levelled out.

Turn on your dipped headlights

The Highway Code says drivers should use dipped headlights when visibility is seriously reduced, meaning you can see less than 100m in front of you. This not only applies to driving in the dark, but also in inclement weather conditions.

Approach hills carefully

If you are driving uphill in icy or wet conditions, you should accelerate before you reach the hill to allow your car to gain momentum. This will help you reach the top of the hill without losing traction.

Maintain a constant speed rather than continually accelerating so your tyres do not lose grip. Avoid changing gears when you are halfway up the hill.

If you are driving downhill, reduce your speed before your descent begins. Use a low gear to prevent skidding and only apply brakes gently if you need them.