Green Flag comments on the forecasted bad weather and provides tips for driving in these conditions

Mark Newberry, Commercial Director at Green Flag, said: “Although many of us thought the colder weather was behind us, it’s unfortunately starting to feel like winter again. After the lovely sunshine of recent days, the temperature is set to drop even further towards the end of this week, with some parts of the UK expecting snow, sleet, and icy conditions.

“Green Flag is urging drivers to take extra care when setting off on their journeys. In these weather conditions it’s important to plan your route in advance, checking for any issues via online maps and travel apps, and when driving to keep a safe distance from cars in front of you. Frozen windscreens are also prevalent during these times, and drivers are reminded that it is extremely important to properly clear the ice or frost from your car before hitting the road. Not only is clearing your car of ice an important safety check but it’s also a legal requirement.”

Green Flag’s Tips for Driving in the Unpredictable UK Weather:

1.     The three-second rule: Keep a three-second gap to the car in front. When that car passes a landmark, count slowly to three. If you pass the same landmark before you get to three, you’re too close. Slowing down a vehicle on icy roads can take three or four times longer than you might expect.

2.     Plan ahead: Plan your route and check for disruption that would cause you issues, such as road closures or delays.

3.     Stick to gentle movements: The trick to keeping control on a slippery surface is to be gentle with your actions when accelerating or breaking. The more sudden the action, the more likely your car is to break traction.

4.     When not to break: If you feel your car starting to slide, avoid touching the brake. Try to steer in the direction you’re sliding to prevent the car spinning.

5.     Be constantly aware: You need to make sure you are expecting the unexpected, winds can cause movements on the roads and therefore, staying alert will save you and others.

6.     Make sure to de-ice:  The most effective way of de-icing car windows is still with a scraper. If you don’t fancy using a scraper, you can also use de-icer sprays, which are a quick and easy way of getting the job done. Hazards come at us from all angles when we’re on the road. It’s important that we can see all around us, so make sure you clear the ice from the side windows as well as the entire windscreen.

ENDS

For further information please contact:

Hayley Fewster

Green Flag PR Manager

Email: Hayley.Fewster@directlinegroup.co.uk

About Green Flag

With over 50 years' experience, Green Flag provides customers with breakdown cover 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Customers have access to a network of breakdown operators across the UK and mainland Europe (Euro Plus cover required).

Green Flag is underwritten by U K Insurance Limited, Registered office: The Wharf, Neville Street, Leeds LS1 4AZ. Registered in England and Wales No 1179980. U K Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

Green Flag and U K Insurance Limited are both part of Direct Line Insurance Group plc.

Customers can find out more about Green Flag products or get a quote by calling 0345 246 1557, connecting via the Green Flag Rescue Me Application, or visiting www.greenflag.com.