Driving in Snow and Ice in the UK: Essential Safety Tips

The UK may not get extreme winters by global standards, but snow and ice cause hundreds of accidents every year. Most of these are avoidable with the right preparation and technique. Here is what you need to know.

Before You Set Off

• Check your route. Use the Met Office weather forecast and traffic apps to check conditions. Is your journey essential?
• Clear your car completely. Clear all windows, mirrors, lights, and the roof. Snow sliding off your roof onto your windscreen (or the car behind) is dangerous and can result in a fine
• Check your fuel. Keep at least a quarter tank in winter in case of delays or diversions
• Pack an emergency kit. Warm blanket, torch, phone charger, water, snacks, hi-vis vest, de-icer, and a shovel (for rural areas)
• Check your tyres. Ensure at least 3mm of tread (the legal minimum is 1.6mm, but 3mm provides significantly better grip in wet and cold conditions)

Driving Technique in Snow and Ice

Gentle inputs are essential. Everything you do — steering, accelerating, and braking — must be smoother and more gradual than in dry conditions. Sudden inputs are what cause skids.

• Accelerate gently. Pull away in 2nd gear to reduce wheel spin. Apply the throttle smoothly and progressively
• Use higher gears. Higher gears reduce torque at the wheels, which reduces the chance of wheel spin. Try 3rd or 4th gear at low speeds
• Brake gently and early. Braking distances on ice can be 10 times longer than on dry roads. Brake in a straight line where possible and start braking much earlier than normal
• Steer smoothly. Avoid sudden steering inputs. If you feel the car starting to slide, ease off the accelerator and steer gently in the direction you want to go
• Leave a large gap. Allow at least 10 times the normal following distance on ice, and 5 times on snow

Braking Distances on Ice

Hills in Snow

Hills are particularly challenging in snow:

• Going uphill: Build up a little speed on the flat before the hill, maintain a steady pace, and avoid changing gear on the slope. If you stop on a snowy hill, you may not be able to get going again
• Going downhill: Use a low gear and engine braking to control your speed. Avoid touching the brakes if possible. If you must brake, do so very gently
• Waiting for hills: If the car ahead is climbing a hill, wait at the bottom until they have cleared the top before starting your ascent. You do not want to stop halfway up

Getting Stuck

If your wheels are spinning and you are not moving:

1. Do not rev the engine — this digs you in deeper
2. Straighten the steering wheel
3. Try pulling away in 2nd gear with minimal throttle
4. Try gently rocking the car: forward a little, reverse a little
5. Place cat litter, sand, or car mats under the driving wheels for traction
6. If nothing works, you will need a push or a tow

When Not to Drive

Sometimes the safest decision is not to drive at all. Consider staying home if:

• The Met Office has issued an amber or red weather warning for your area
• Roads have not been gritted and conditions are icy
• You cannot see the road surface (deep snow)
• Your journey is not essential

If your employer expects you to travel in dangerous conditions, know your rights: there is no legal requirement to risk your safety to get to work. Have an honest conversation with your employer about working from home or delayed starts in severe weather.

Final Thoughts

Most winter driving accidents are caused by driving too fast for the conditions, braking too late, or a lack of preparation. Slow down, leave plenty of space, and be gentle with all your inputs. If the conditions are severe, the safest option is to stay home.