Icy Roads: A Few Things To Remember

The ice that covers the road surfaces of much of Britain during the worst periods of winter can prove deadly, and is a major contributor to the overall number of road traffic accidents that happen every year in this country. In addition to the fact that this ice makes gripping the road surfaces far more difficult than at any other time, there is also the fact that much of the ice which is on the surface of UK roads during winter is black ice - which obviously is far harder to spot on the surface of the road. Therefore it is vital to prepare thoroughly before taking to the roads in such conditions.

If you are going to be driving regularly on icy winter roads, then it is essential that you make sure that the tyres on your vehicle are up to the job. If you are using the all-weather tyres that you employ during the rest of the year, then you need to ensure that the have a sufficient depth of tread to be able to cope with much more slippery road surfaces; meaning no less than 2mm depth of tread, but preferably closer to 3mm. Alternatively, if you feel that the ice on the roads where you live is particularly severe, you may wish to invest in special winter tyres, which are made using a different rubber alloy designed not to harden in freezing temperatures – thus ensuring more flexibility and grip.

Again it is important to avoid the worst of the road surfaces if you have to drive in icy weather, so map out a route that enables you to stick to the main roads as much as possible, as these will probably have been gritted – even if it is longer than taking the back roads. This may be less possible if your location is more remote, making winter tyres a good option for those in such circumstances.

If you have been in a car accident, and you have suffered a head injury because a road was not properly de-iced, or another driver wasn't taking heed of the road conditions and you want to talk to a brain injury solicitor, then visit www.theheadinjurysite.com.

And remember, stay safe on the roads. Speed kills, so drive slowly and stay vigilent!