IAM offers caravanners advice for towing on wintry roads
Towing on snow can be very risky
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Tuesday, 06, Dec 2011 10:07
by Tom Lowenstein
The cold snap that has bitten down on Britain in the last few days has led to more treacherous driving conditions on the nation's roads and now the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) are urging drivers to take care as the freezing conditions spread.
Many caravan parks open all year round, but caravan owners heading off for a winter break are advised to take extra care when towing.
As experienced caravanners will well know, the added weight of a caravan not only reduces the effectiveness of breaks but can also increase the risk of snaking, while caravans are more susceptible to cross winds too.
The IAM has advised that motorists driving in wintry conditions make sure that all windows are de-misted so that visibility is 100 per cent and they also recommend clearing snow from the roof of the towcar.
Those driving in snow are urged to get their speed right, as driving too fast can cause loss of control and driving too slow can mean a loss of momentum when needed, particularly when driving uphill.
Peter Rodger, Chief Examiner at the IAM, said: "Avoid travelling unless completely necessary, and don't ignore police warnings or advice to not travel on specific routes."
Driving in higher gears to increase control and using the engine to break while driving downhill are both strongly recommended too, but above all, just play it safe and take it slowly.