DRIVERS are being advised to take extra care on the roads and check weather forecasts, and road conditions, before they travel as the Met Office is forecasting spells of wet and windy weather across many parts of England, followed by much colder conditions.
Strong winds, with gusts of up to 60mph, are expected over many parts of England throughout today. The wind will also bring heavy outbreaks of rain.
As the temperature falls, snow showers are expected in many areas, particularly the North West, which could affect driving conditions from Friday morning to Saturday.
Strong winds: Strong gusts can blow any vehicle, cyclist, motorcyclist or horse rider off course. This can happen on open stretches of road exposed to strong crosswinds, or when passing bridges and high-sided vehicles.
Lorry drivers should monitor traffic and travel radio bulletins for specific information as it becomes clear which routes are particularly affected.
Wet conditions: When the road is wet, it can take twice as long to stop so it makes sense to slow down when it's raining. If your vehicle loses its grip, or "aquaplanes", on surface water take your foot off the accelerator to slow down. Don't brake or steer suddenly as you have no control of the steering or brakes.
Snow: Road users are advised to be prepared with warm clothes and an emergency pack, which includes food and water, boots, de-icer, a torch and a shovel.
The Highways Agency, responsible for England's motorways and major A roads, has its winter fleet on stand-by to treat the roads whenever freezing temperatures and snow are forecast.
Overall, the Highways Agency is advising drivers to plan their journey, check the weather forecast, road conditions and your route for delays before you leave home and delay travelling if the weather becomes severe.
Drivers are also advised to ensure they have plenty of fuel for their journey.
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