06 Feb 2018 As forecasters warn that Britain is set to have the coldest week of the year as temperatures continue to plummet. Leading breakdown provider Green Flag predicts more than 114,000 breakdowns will occur on Britain’s roads this week, as the difficult weather conditions take hold.

An abundance of ice and snow showers are set to hit the UK over the coming days – and with weather conditions causing havoc on British roads, 11 breakdowns a minute are predicted to take place across the country.

In response to the adverse weather conditions, Green Flag has issued a set of tips on how to drive in snowy and icy conditions, to encourage drivers to stay safe on the roads.

A spokesman for Green Flag, said: “The plunging temperatures and icy conditions may take some drivers by surprise this week, so it’s important that drivers do all they can to stay safe in the more challenging conditions.

“By thoroughly checking their cars before they leave home, and approaching the roads with caution, drivers will decrease the risk of encountering a problem on the roads this week.”

Winter Driving Tips

1. Check your speed and use gentle driver inputs – even if the roads have been gritted they’re likely to be slippery.
2. Give more warning than usual to other drivers – when turning, stopping or changing lane.
3. Keep plenty of distance between cars – you never know when you’ll hit an icy patch. If you pass the same landmarks as the car in front of you within three seconds, you’re following too closely.
4. Check whether your car has ABS anti-lock brakes. In the unlikely event that it doesn’t, pump the brake pedal slowly to prevent the wheels locking up and skidding.
5. Be extra-wary of black ice. It’s an invisible danger that can catch out even the most careful driver.
6. Approach corners at a steady speed, in as low a gear as possible. Don’t touch the clutch unless it’s absolutely necessary, steer smoothly and avoid braking on bends.
7. Ensure you’re familiar with your car’s ventilation system to prevent windows from steaming up. Air conditioning will keep windows free from mist and condensation.