Driving in fog/snow

Winter conditions -

• you MUST have a full view of the road and traffic ahead, so clear snow and ice from all your windows
• you MUST ensure that lights are clean and number plates are clearly visible and legible
• make sure the mirrors are clear and the windows are de misted thoroughly
• remove all snow from your roof and bonnet, to avoid it slipping or being blown over your windscreen, or flying into the path of another car
• remove all snow that might fall off into the path of other road users
• check your planned route is clear of delays and that no further snow falls or severe weather are predicted.
• Drive slowly making any movements slowly and calmly.
• If you have to brake, just pump the brakes gently this will help to reduce skidding.
• If you do skid then turn the wheel the opposite way and that should help to correct your car's position.
• Always leave plenty of room between you and the car in front.
• Make sure you have a spade, blanket and water in the car in case of emergencies.
• Move off in second gear to get a better grip on the road surface.
• Try not to brake if you are on a patch of ice unless necessary.
• Call ahead and let someone know your expected time of arrival.
• If you are going up a steep hill use as high a gear as possible to stop your wheels from slipping.
• Make sure battery is fully charged.

Fog -

• Drive slower and watch carefully the road in front of you because fog can appear and disappear in an instant.
• Use rear fog lights when visibility reduced to 100m or less.
• Only use front fog lights when visibility is seriously reduced.
• Turn radio off and open window slightly so you can hear other vehicles.
• Do not follow the car in front too closely.
• Do not use full beam head lights but dipped as these point to the road making it easier for you to see and for others to see you.
• Use windscreen wipers and demisters.
• If visibility reduced to less than 20/30m then your speed should be 20mph.

Whilst there is no specific offence relating to snow on a vehicle's roof and bonnet, it is advisable to remove any loose snow before commencing your journey. If it slips or is blown over the windscreen, or flies into the path of another car, it could cause a hazard for you or another road user and could leave you open to being penalised for a number of offences, such as 'driving without due consideration' or 'using a motor vehicle in a dangerous condition'.

See link in related information for advice on driving in winter conditions.

There is no specific legislation referring to snow chains.

However regulation 27(1)(a) of the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 states - the tyre must be suitable having regard to which the vehicle or trailer is being put or to the type of tyres fitted to its other wheels.

This could mean that a person may commit an offence if they use snow chains when there is no snow.

Please see the related website for further information.