The Highways Agency is encouraging people to be ready for severe weather as part of its ‘Make Time for Winter’ campaign.

The campaign encourages drivers to prepare for winter journeys that may be affected by poor weather.

Research by the Highways Agency shows that 49% of drivers ignore severe weather warnings, while 29% of drivers do not prepare their vehicle for winter – potentially putting themselves and others at risk.

Roads Minister Stephen Hammond said, “Drivers need to make sure they and their vehicles are ready for severe weather. Vehicles are much more prone to break down as temperatures plummet and a routine incident or breakdown can become much more serious in severe weather.”

“Any broken down vehicles can have a big impact on our motorways and trunk roads, making it harder for road salting vehicles and snow ploughs to operate. As well as putting the driver and passengers at risk, it takes longer to clear the roads and causes delays for everyone else.”

“It’s important drivers take a few minutes to check their vehicles, plan their journeys, check the weather forecast and carry an emergency kit. In the most severe weather, they should even consider whether their journey is really necessary before they set out.”

For advice on being ready for severe weather, visit the ‘Make Time for Winter’ pages at: www.highways.gov.uk/winter.