Difficult driving conditions expected

GRITTERS will be out on the county's roads tonight as temperatures plunge below freezing (Tuesday).

From 6pm the fleet will be treating primary and secondary routes across Redditch following predictions of widespread frost and road temperatures dropping as low as minus seven.

Some mist and freezing fog patches are also expected to form overnight with light winds, while severe frost is due tomorrow (Wednesday) morning.

Motorists are being urged to take extra care on the roads, even if they have been gritted.

Worcestershire County Council urged drivers to make sure they complete maintenance checks and plan journeys carefully before setting off.

A spokesman advised drivers to slow down, use dipped headlights, keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front, avoid skidding or braking and keep windscreens clean.

The Safer Roads Partnership also warned drivers to take care in the morning when black ice can be particularly dangerous.

Anna Higgins, communications manager for the Safer Roads Partnership said "There have already been numerous reports of hazardous driving conditions in the mornings and motorists need to take extra care when weather and driving conditions deteriorate.

"Vehicle handling can change considerably and it takes much longer to slow down on wet and icy roads. Keep well back from the vehicle in front and allow plenty of time to slow down.

"Steering may become unresponsive and if this happens, ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually. Braking sharply on an icy or wet road will only make the situation worse and could cause the brakes to lock and the car to skid."

She also reminded drivers about the importance of carrying an emergency kit in their cars during the winter months in case of a breakdown or delay.

This should include items such as an ice-scraper, torch, warm clothes and a blanket, a pair of boots, a first aid kit, battery jump leads, a shovel for snow, food and drink and sunglasses to help see in low winter sun.

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