Drivers have been urged to avoid following other road users too closely in icy conditions (Image: Getty)
A motoring expert has shared a that can help Brits stay safe and when getting behind the wheel throughout December.
With many parts of the UK already in recent weeks, motorists across the country are already all too familiar with travelling on .
However, Matthew Briggs, CEO at , noted that far too few drivers are when the roads are icy.
He advised: “Although driving in the winter can feel somewhat similar to normal conditions, black ice is a very common occurrence, especially in the UK.
“Whilst it might take you 20 or so metres to stop at 30mph in dry conditions, on ice this can increase your stopping distance to about 60 metres. So, be sure to increase the distance, if not double but triple, between you and another car, as well as reduce your speed – regardless of your car’s capabilities in harsh conditions.”
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In icy or snowy weather conditions, drivers must increase their following distance to 20 seconds (Image: Getty)
Under most motoring conditions, drivers should keep a distance of about two seconds from the vehicle in front in order to give them enough time to react to a sudden situation, such as an emergency stop.
However, when the roads are wet or icy, the reduced amount of friction on the roads means that drivers should increase this amount to around 20 seconds in order to make sure they can stop their vehicle in time.
If a vehicle is spotted travelling too closely to a vehicle in front, it could be accused of tailgating, which could lead to fines of up to £100 and three points on their licence.
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Drivers were also urged to keep their speed down when turning corners on icy roads to keep control (Image: Getty)
Similarly, Matthew recommended that motorists keep to a steady pace when travelling in icy weather, particularly when taking corners in the road or at junctions.
He continued: “Driving in icy conditions means that every movement you make in your car is felt tenfold, and once control is lost it’s very hard to regain.
“In order to maintain as much control of the car as possible, movements should be slow and steady. Knowing your car well is also important, if you know your steering wheel is very sensitive, reduce your speed even more – that way you’re one step ahead of any incidents that may occur.”
Finally, Matthew suggested that drivers who are planning to travel extensively during December fit winter tyres, which can give the vehicle better grip.
He added: “Tyres play a crucial role in stopping distance capabilities in ice.
“Winter tyres are designed to perform better on ice, so if you can afford to invest in them – especially if you live in colder climates – I highly recommend them.”