This winter, many parts of the UK have faced snowy and icy conditions, with more severe weather, including a ‘Beast from the East’ blizzard, on the horizon. As temperatures drop and roads become hazardous, it’s essential for motorists to understand how to adjust their driving habits to stay safe.
Driving instructor Annie, who shares practical advice with her 1.2 million TikTok followers, has issued a vital reminder about maintaining safe distances when driving on icy roads. Her guidance is based on the Highway Code but adapted for the increased danger posed by ice.
Under normal, dry conditions, the Highway Code advises keeping a two-second gap between your vehicle and the one in front. On wet roads, this gap should be doubled to four seconds due to longer stopping distances. However, icy roads demand an even greater margin of safety.
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Annie explains: “When it’s icy, stopping takes much longer. Ideally, you should leave a 20-second gap between your car and the one ahead. That’s ten times the normal safe distance.”
She emphasizes that this extended gap is critical because vehicles need significantly more time to come to a halt on slippery surfaces. For learners and licensed drivers alike, this means giving yourself plenty of space—and patience—when navigating winter roads.
In addition to keeping a large following distance, Annie advises avoiding travel during icy conditions unless absolutely necessary. If you must drive, make sure your car is thoroughly cleared of snow and ice, including windows, lights, mirrors, the roof, and bonnet. Driving with obstructed views or snow-covered surfaces can not only cause accidents but also result in hefty fines.
Annie cautions, “Snow can blow off your roof or bonnet onto your windscreen or onto other vehicles, posing serious hazards.”
By preparing your car and maintaining a significantly extended gap behind the vehicle in front, you can help reduce the risk of accidents and stay safer on the roads this winter.