Driving conditions as a result of drop in temperature

Garda Adrian Corcoran also discussed driving conditions as a result of the recent drop in temperature. 

Driving in Snow and Ice

In extreme weather conditions you should ask yourself if making a journey by road is absolutely necessary. If it’s not, consider delaying your trip until the weather and road conditions improve. This is especially important if you are a vulnerable road user such as a pedestrian, cyclist or motorcyclist. 

You should:

• Service your vehicle so that it is safe for winter driving
• Top up with anti-freeze and screen wash
• Check for wear and tear on wiper blades and replace them as soon as they start to smear rather than clean windows
• Keep tyre pressure at the manufacturer's recommended level and check you have at least 3 millimetres of tread depth
• Make sure all vehicle lights are working and clean 

Clear windscreen

Ensure all your windows are clean and free from snow and bring a scraper and de-icer with you. Snow left on the roof will become loose and can drop onto the windscreen during braking, thereby causing sudden and severe restriction to your vision.

Check your lights and indicators as falling snow reduces visibility. Make sure your mobile phone is fully charged. If your car has rear wheel drive the addition of extra weight in the boot, such as a bag of sand or cement, will help your wheels to grip. 

Driving advice in icy conditions  

It takes longer to stop a vehicle in snow or on icy roads so slow down and allow extra distance between you and the vehicle in front. During your journey remember the following:

• keep a sharp lookout for pedestrians, cyclists and other vulnerable road users
• keep your windows clear of snow during your journey
• manoeuvre gently and avoid harsh braking, acceleration or steering as these can induce a skid
• use the highest gear possible to reduce the engine revs as this will help avoid wheel spin

When travelling downhill, especially through a series of bends, select a low gear as early as possible and allow your speed to reduce using the brake pedal gently

Driving

Gently does it. Manoeuvre gently, slow down and leave extra distance between you and the vehicle in front. Too much steering is bad and avoid harsh braking and acceleration. Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin. Select a low gear when travelling downhill especially if through bends. Falling snow, fog, rain, or hail will reduce visibility. Do not hang on to the tail lights of the vehicle in front of you as it can give a false sense of security. When you slow down, use your brakes so that the brake lights warn drivers behind you.

Watch out for "black ice." If the road looks polished or glossy it could be, "black ice” one of winters worst hazards: Black Ice is difficult to see! It is nearly invisible. 

Advice to walkers and cyclists

If a journey cannot be avoided, pedestrians should be extremely careful as snow and ice can make walking on footpaths very dangerous. Wear sturdy footwear with good gripping soles. Take an extra look before you cross the road and do not attempt to cross the road if there are vehicles around – remember snow and ice increase the distance that cars need to stop. Visibility is reduced in snowy condition so wear high visibility clothing or carry a torch. 

Advice to motorcyclists and cyclists

Motorcyclists and cyclists should consider their safety before using their motorcycles / bicycles in icy/snow conditions. Controlling two wheeled vehicles in snow or icy conditions is extremely difficult and there is an increased danger of a collision with a vehicle that is out of control. Consider taking alternative transport or walking.