Before you set off
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you MUST be able to see, so clear all snow and ice from all your windows
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you MUST ensure that lights are clean and number plates are clearly visible and legible
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make sure the mirrors are clear and the windows are demisted thoroughly
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remove all snow that might fall off into the path of other road users
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check your planned route is clear of delays and that no further snowfalls or severe weather are predicted.
How often have you set off on an icy morning and NOT cleared the ice off your lights? Or driven down the street and seen a car coming the other way with the driver peeping through a small “window” in the windscreen where they’ve cleared off the minimum of ice or even snow whilst they wait for the demister to kick in? Or even driven down the motorway and seen cars with snow still on the roof, only for it to land on the bonnet, blocking the windscreen when they had to slam the brakes on for that queue at the M61/M60 junction?
This rule might seem obvious, but statistics tell us that the majority of accidents happen within a few miles of our homes. Taking an extra couple of minutes to completely clear your car could be the difference between having an accident or getting to your destination safely.
Another thing to consider is what you carry in your car as we go into the winter period. An extra blanket, bottle of water and packet of biscuits could just mean the difference between a comfortable and uncomfortable time stuck on the motorway.
For more information on this and other Highway Code rules, go to https://www.gov.uk/guidance/the-highway-code