Drivers have been warned that the Highway Code's stopping distance guidance does not go far enough when it comes to winter driving.
Motoring experts stated the official advice, based largely on dry road conditions, fails to reflect the dangers posed by frost, ice and snow, leaving many motorists unaware of just how far it can take to stop in cold weather.
Car insurance specialists at Quotezone.co.uk have warned stopping distances in icy or snowy conditions can be up to 10 times longer than those listed in the Highway Code. Even wet roads can double the distance needed to stop safely.
With frosty weather forecast across parts of the UK, drivers have now been urged to slow down, leave much bigger gaps between vehicles and not rely solely on Highway Code figures when conditions turn wintry.
According to reports, between October and March, motorists were found to be six times more likely to be involved in a road accident, as darker evenings, rain, fog and icy roads increase the risk of collisions.
In normal dry conditions, the Highway Code advises stopping distances of 23 metres at 30mph, 53 metres at 50mph and 96 metres at 70mph.
But experts warn these figures can be dangerously misleading in winter. On snow or ice, a vehicle may need up to 10 times that distance to come to a complete stop. In wet weather, stopping distances should be at least doubled.
Stopping distance is not just about how hard a driver brakes. It also includes thinking distance, the time it takes for a driver to spot a hazard and react.
Highway Code no longer fit for purpose as winter rules fail to reduce 'serious' road collisions | GETTY/PACold mornings, poor visibility and longer journeys can increase fatigue, slowing reaction times and making it even harder to stop safely on slippery roads.
Greg Wilson, CEO and car insurance expert at Quotezone.co.uk, said drivers should not assume Highway Code guidance applies in all conditions.
He said: "The Highway Code figures are based on ideal driving conditions. In winter, those distances simply don't reflect reality."
"When roads are icy or wet, drivers need far more time and space to react. Leaving larger gaps and reducing speed is essential to avoid serious accidents."
He also warned that ignoring winter driving advice could have consequences beyond the crash itself.
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Experts have highlighted issues with the Highway Code and its winter rules
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"If a driver is involved in an accident during icy or snowy conditions and is found to be speeding or driving carelessly, insurers may challenge the claim," he said. "Drivers are still expected to adapt their driving to the conditions."
Quotezone.co.uk has shared practical advice to help motorists stay safe during the colder months.
Drivers have been urged to increase their stopping distance significantly — doubling it in wet conditions and allowing up to ten times more space on icy or snowy roads.
Reducing speed gives drivers more time to react and helps maintain control. Speed limits are the maximum allowed, not a safe target in poor conditions.
Experts warned that car stopping distance increased significantly during colder weather
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Leaving extra space between vehicles helps compensate for reduced visibility caused by fog, frost and heavy rain.
Before setting off, drivers should check their tyres, ensuring tread depth is above the legal minimum of 1.6mm and that tyre pressure is correct for better grip.
All windows, mirrors and lights should be completely clear of ice, snow and condensation before driving. Headlights should be used whenever visibility is poor.
When driving on snow or ice, braking should be gentle. Sudden braking or sharp acceleration can cause skidding, so engine braking is advised where possible.
Drivers have also been advised to watch out for black ice, which commonly forms on shaded roads, bridges and overpasses.
If encountered, drivers should avoid braking suddenly and keep the steering wheel straight.
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