8.38. Cold weather driving

Whatever the conditions, drive with caution. Accelerate and decelerate with great care. If accelerating or decelerating too fast, the drive wheels will lose even more traction.

Allow more stopping distance in cold weather driving. Braking should be started sooner than on dry surfaces.

Keep at a greater distance from the vehicle in front of you on slippery roads.

Wet ice (0°C, 32°F and freezing rain), very cold snow and ice can be slick and very difficult to drive on. The vehicle will have a lot less traction or grip under these conditions. Try to avoid driving on wet ice until the road is salted or sanded.

Watch for slippery spots (black ice). These may appear on an otherwise clear road in shaded areas. If a patch of ice is seen ahead, brake before driving on it. Try not to brake while actually on the ice and avoid any sudden steering manoeuvres.

Do not use cruise control (where fitted) on slippery roads.

Snow can trap dangerous exhaust gas under your vehicle. Keep snow clear of the exhaust pipe and from around your vehicle.