Drivers urged 'go slow' in wintry conditions

Britain's drivers are running the risk of putting themselves and others at serious risk by driving too fast in the snowy weather, according to the Highways Agency (HA).

Over the last 24 hours, many areas in southern and eastern England have been affected by snow and ice on the roads, but too many motorists are failing to adapt their driving habit to the hazardous conditions, warns the organisation responsible for maintaining Britain's roads.

More than 100 gritters out of its total fleet of 400 have already been used to keep motorways and other major routes clear of snow and ice in the south and east but drivers still need to make sure they slow down to avoid serious injury.

"Although the majority of drivers are adjusting their speeds to the conditions some drivers are driving too fast for the conditions," said HA.

"Drivers should moderate their speed to keep well within the limits because of the wintry conditions, particularly when snow is falling."

The Department of Transport calculates that it can take up to ten times longer to stop in icy conditions, emphasising the importance of motorists cutting their speed.