General advice

There are lots of ways of improving your winter driving technique, but is it worth it, especially in the south of the UK where poor conditions are seldom encountered. If you want to 'go for it' visit a northern European 'snow school'. Alternatively, a skid control course could do a lot to help you stay on the road the next time that bad weather hits!

My best advice for winter motoring is stay at home!

It is often said that slowing through the gears is better in poor conditions, however, engine braking can momentarily lock the wheels in the same way that normal braking can. I would recommend normal slowing techniques but with feather light use of the controls. It is also worth noting that anti-lock brakes , while an almost always an advantage in poor weather, do not increase the available grip.

Signs and markings will be hidden in snow. You may know the roads and be aware of who has priority, but does the other driver?

If you have to turn your car around for any reason, keep the driving wheels on the firmest surface. Be aware of the differences between front and rear wheel drive in this respect - know your car.

When making long journeys in poor weather conditions take a break more often than you normally would. The extra concentration needed will make you tired more quickly. Not only do you want to arrive alive,if you are driving as part of your work you also want to arrive in a fit mental state to do business.

Start long journeys with a check on the weather conditions and forecasts. In high, or exposed areas (such as crossing mountains or wide plains) roads can become impassable very, very quickly.