IAM RoadSmart issues warning for strong winds and snow from Storm Bert

Richard Gladman, Chief Examiner for IAM RoadSmart, said: "Heavy snow is expected on Saturday, so people living in amber areas where warnings have been issued should consider whether their journey is really necessary; roads will be hard to navigate, and motorists could become stranded. If you really do need to head out in the snow, you can keep yourself and others safe by keeping your distance from other vehicles, accelerating gently, using low revs, and changing to higher gears as quickly as possible. Starting in second gear will help with wheel slip, and use a low gear to control your speed going downhill. Brake early and gently, and avoid harsh braking unless necessary. Take warm clothing, a blanket, a torch, and a fully charged mobile phone, and let someone at your destination know you are coming. Where possible, stay on major routes, which will have been treated."