People need to make sure they know whether they are fit to drive as new year celebrations kick in.
This is the advice of the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM), which identified that it can be particularly difficult to drive as it is on the icy roads.
However, still being under the influence of alcohol from the night before can make driving even more hazardous, it suggested.
Chief examiner Peter Rodger commented: "The additional challenges of driving on snow and ice make the normal messages about not drinking and driving all the more important this New Year.
"The morning after effect has the potential to catch out many shoppers as well as those returning home after an extended break."
The organisation stresses that people should leave plenty of time for their journeys to avoid being flustered if they are running late.
It also suggested that keeping windscreens free of debris will be beneficial, as will checking that windscreen wipers are in full working order.
Furthermore, the organisation urged motorists to make sure they drive smoothly to avoid skidding on roads which have not been treated with grit.
"Our message to drivers is to assess the type of road you're driving on. Going too fast is dangerous, but going too slowly can cause real difficulties as well," Mr Rodger emphasised.
He did, however, suggest that people should not drive too slowly as this can reduce their ability to get up slopes, which can cause them to slide backwards.
IAM believes that more roads will become gridlocked as people head off to the January sales, meaning untreated routes become even more of a problem.
Being aware of other motorists is as crucial as ever at this time of year, it added, as is making sure that cars are properly kitted out should they suddenly break down. |
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