People who have their cars heavily loaded with gifts are reminded that their stopping distances may increase as a result.
Carsite.co.uk explained that in some cases, vehicles with too much piled inside them could take 25 per cent longer to stop.
Alistair Jeff from the website said: "Even with modern braking technology, the laws of physics still apply. Increase the car's weight and under the same braking conditions the distance taken to stop will increase at the same rate."
A car which contains not only presents but all the family as well can add around 350kg to the weight, which will become evident when the vehicle has to stop, the site warned.
The average motorist will not be used to having so much in their car, Mr Jeff said, which should encourage them to take out car insurance should any unfortunate incident occur.
If it is absolutely necessary to travel with so much luggage and weight, basic car maintenance is essential, according to Carsite.co.uk's independent RAC inspector Ron Waldock.
He continued: "Check all essential fluid levels and make sure your tyres are correctly inflated with plenty of tread left.
"On the road give yourself even more room than normal from the car in front and watch for cars driving too close behind."
The current icy conditions will make driving more difficult than usual, as minor roads in particular tend not to be gritted.
In response to the bad weather, the Highways Agency has said it will continue to do what is possible to help the worst-hit areas.
It has sent out more gritting vans and ploughs to remove some of the snow, although the organisation said people need to do what they can to avoid making journeys wherever possible.
Those who do need to travel should ensure they have essential items such as a torch and blanket, it added. |
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