Transport for Buckinghamshire (TfB) works together with Thames Valley Police, the South Central Ambulance Service and Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service in reminding motorists to drive with caution when road temperatures drop. TfB has gritted its primary routes a total of 20 times since October, however drivers are urged to take care as roads may still be slippery. TfB reminds motorists that many minor roads will not be treated with salt and in severe cold weather, below -8 °C, even salt will not prevent ice from forming.
Deputy Cabinet Member for Planning and Transportation, Ruth Vigor-Hedderly, said: “It doesn’t take a severe snowstorm to require more care and attention when driving. We need to all take note when the weather is colder and remember that even though roads may look fine, isolated spots and areas that don’t see the sun may still be slippery.”
Inspector Colin Clark, from Thames Valley Police said: “Both ourselves and South Central Ambulance Service services have attended numerous collisions, where drivers have not taken adequate care and consideration for driving in these conditions. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service is frequently called to collisions where people’s vehicles need to be cut open to release them. Road Safety Manager Keith Wheeler said: “Never rush, even if the road conditions mean your journey is taking longer than expected. It’s better to take your time and make sure you arrive safely.”
The organisations are advising drivers to check their vehicles are prepared to drive on winter roads. Tyre pressure and tread, windscreen wipers and washer fluid, windscreens are fully defrosted, anti freeze and lights should all be checked to ensure they are as effective as possible.
A TfB winter leaflet has advice and information and can be viewed online along with maps of the gritting routes – go to : http://www.transportforbucks.net/Winter-maintenance.aspx