TOP tips on winter driving have been issued after a survey found more than two thirds of people will take to the roads this Christmas, even if the weather is bad.
Local Vauxhall retailer Davidsons of Morpeth has conducted a customer survey to show people’s Christmas driving plans.
All of those questioned said they were planning at least one trip over the festive period, and one-in-five estimated they would travel an average of more than 200 miles on each journey to visit family and friends.
Half of the journeys would be on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day or Boxing Day, with the peak travel time between 10am and 2pm.
However, only 22 per cent said they would check their tyres before setting off and only 30 per cent would pack bad weather accessories or extra provisions such as blankets, food and emergency kits.
Davidsons Sales Manager Richard Scaife said: “With such a high percentage of people determined to take to the roads this Christmas, whatever the weather, it is quite alarming that so few would take the correct precautions to help improve their safety.”
The survey was conducted online this month, with 500 respondents.
The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) has issued advice on driving in the snow and ice.
It includes making sure windows are clear, clearing snow off the roof, choosing the right speed, avoiding high revs, staying in a higher gear and only braking if you cannot steer out of trouble, doubling or tripling normal stopping distances.
If you skid, take your foot off the pedals and steer, and for bends or downhill slopes, slow down before you get there.
Avoid using minor roads, which are less likely to have been cleared or gritted.
For more advice visit www.drivingadvice.org.uk