IAM RoadSmart issues warnings ahead of heavy snow and ice

Significant snowfall and freezing rain expected to cause major disruptions as amber alerts are announced by the Met Office

Richard Gladman, IAM RoadSmart Chief Examiner, said: "With snow predicted to fall this weekend, we're urging motorists to plan ahead and think about whether that journey is really necessary. Driving conditions are likely to be challenging, with the added danger of ice. If you do need to go somewhere, here are some things to keep in mind: try to stick to major routes that will have been gritted and use a low gear to go downhill as it will keep your speed slow. And if you do need to stop, make sure you do it in plenty of time with gentle braking - it's better to avoid a skid than have to deal with it by steering into it."