Top tips for driving in snow

The Institute of Advanced Motorists today issued advice for drivers faced with encountering the first snows of the winter on Scotland’s roads.

If you can, avoid travelling on quieter roads or country lanes as these are less likely to be gritted.

• Don’t forget to clear off snow piled on the roof and bonnet as it can fall and blow on to the windscreen or the vehicle behind.

• Start your car gently from stationary and avoid high revs.

If road conditions are icy and you drive a manual car, move off in a higher gear rather than first gear. Stay in a higher gear to avoid wheel spin.

• Never drive too fast that you risk losing control, but avoid driving so slowly that you risk losing momentum, especially when driving up a slope.

• Double your stopping distance from the vehicle in front of you.

This will give you more time to slow down without relying on your brakes.