Aviva's Advice for Snowbound Drivers

Aviva has seen motor insurance claims rise by 30% today as treacherous

road conditions worsen.

Adam Cracknell from Aviva said, "With the wintry weather forecasted
throughout the rest of the week, we are urging motorists to take extra
care when travelling.  Whether it's a short trip or a longer journey, snow
and ice can make driving treacherous - particularly at night when the
roads start to freeze.  Motorists should try and leave plenty of space
between themselves and the car in front, as most of the claims we are
seeing are low impact shunts and collisions where vehicles have not been
able to stop in time".

Above all, motorists must ensure they and their car are well prepared -
and take heed of weather reports.

Aviva offers the following adivce to motorists:

If the forecast or conditions are really bad, only drive if you absolutely
have to.

Watch out in snow and ice

DO clear all snow from the roof and bonnet plus any ice from your windows.
Snow on your bodywork can be blown onto your windscreen.
DO de-mist the windows properly before you drive off.
DO drive carefully, even if the roads have been gritted.
DO keep your distance from the vehicle in front.
DO watch out for gritting lorries or snowploughs.
DO drive slowly and smoothly through bends where a skid is more likely.

Watch out for you & your car

DO make sure you have car breakdown cover.
DO travel with a supply of drinks and snacks.
Pack a flask of tea or coffee, chocolates and some warm clothing.
Keep you car well ventilated to prevent drowsiness - and take regular
breaks!
DO plan your journey in advance and check for diversions or closures.
Keep an up-to-date roadmap in the car.
Listen to local road reports using the RDS function on your car radio.
Let friends or family know where you are travelling and when you expect to
arrive.
Keep a fully-charged mobile phone with you in case of breakdown.
DO make sure your car is well serviced and in good shape for winter
driving.
Check tyre pressure (spare tyre too!), tread depth and oil is OK.
Make sure you have plenty of fuel.
Make sure all lights are clean - and your number plate too!
Know how to replace a tyre if you have a puncture.
Know how the de-mister and heating controls work.
DO keep the windscreen clean.
Check the wiper blades for splits or damage before you travel.
Keep a bottle of screenwash in your car.
Keep lights clean front and rear.