Last updated at 17:42, Thursday, 13 December 2012

THE safety of motorists is in their own hands this winter police have warned.

As sub-zero temperatures hit the county, drivers are being urged to take the conditions of the road into account.

Inspector Dave Bosson, of the Southern Roads Policing Unit, said: “The main roads are well gritted. It’s when you venture off the main arterial routes of Cumbria onto country lanes that there might be ice.

“Drivers should always drive according to their ability, bearing in mind they may not be able to see the ice, and there could be black ice as well.

“I would urge people to drive with a mobile phone, in case they break down or are involved in an accident, and make sure they have warm clothing in the vehicle. Making sure they have enough petrol is also important.”

Insp Bosson also recommended making sure tyres are fit for the conditions.

He said: “The law says tyres must have a tread of 1.6mm, but most garages recommend 3mm in these conditions.”

Sergeant Simon Walker, of Ulverston Road Policing Unit, said: “The onus is on drivers to drive appropriately so they can deal with the conditions.

It does happen, but it’s very rare, that an accident is caused solely by ice over the whole of the road.”

He said that although conditions can make the road more treacherous, driver error is still a major factor in most accidents.

One of the main areas of concern for police is making sure windows and mirrors are clear before heading out onto the road. Sgt Walker said: “I would also say that people should make sure they de-ice their cars properly. If people drive along with just a small gap in the windscreen that is an offence, they need to clear the side windows and mirrors as well.

“If people get to the car five minutes early it can make the difference. But we are not saying that people should start their engines and go back inside for a cup of coffee, because then obviously they risk the car being stolen.”

First published at 10:21, Thursday, 13 December 2012
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk