November 2010 was one of the coldest in recent records with the mercury plummeting to an average temperature of -8 degrees Celsius in many places across the UK. It definitely seemed as though winter had come early with snow showers and icy conditions causing many local councils to exhaust their supplies of grit.
With the icy weather and snow showers comes the all too familiar sight of cars being driven with partially cleared windscreens, several inches of snow adorning their roof and grumpy drivers at the wheel.
What many seem to forget however is that it is actually a criminal offence to drive your vehicle without clearing all of the windscreen and windows completely. Failing to do so could land you with a £60 fine and 3 points on your licence if the police spot you; a nasty surprise at Christmas when ever penny counts.
Even the more aware drivers seem to be forgetting about something when it comes to preparing their cars to drive in winter; the roof. Under the same rule (229) of the Highway Code, drivers must clear their vehicles roof of all snow before setting off as this could prove hazardous for other drivers when travelling at speed.
The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) today reminded the drivers of Britain to completely clear their vehicle of all snow and ice before setting off for a journey, with a spokesperson quoting the rule: “Before you set off you must be able to see, so clear all snow and ice from all your windows. You must ensure that lights are clean and number plates are clearly visible and legible, make sure the mirrors are clear and the windows are demisted thoroughly.”
It is important for your own safety as well as that of other road users that you thoroughly defrost your vehicle before attempting a journey, so it is advisable to allow 10-15 minutes extra for each journey you make at this time of year to avoid rushing or lead to inadequate preparation.
Other things that could see you fined during the festive period and winter as a whole are: use of fog lights when visibility is not impaired (also carries an on the spot £60 fine and 3 point penalty) and of course drink driving (which could lead to a driving ban, points and a fine; not to mention a nasty shock when you next look on Moneysupermarket.com for car insurance).
Further cold weather and more snow showers are on the way so you should avoid making any journeys that aren’t absolutely necessary during this period and keep an eye on the weather forecast for your area to allow you to plan ahead (the Met Office is a good place to check online).
If you do have to travel in icy conditions or after heavy snow, it is essential that you pack an emergency kit containing; torch, first aid kit, warning triangle, warm blanket, food/drink, high visibility jacket and a snow shovel.
