As snow, sleet and ice warnings kick in across the country, police are urging motorists to drive carefully. Amanda Stretton, motoring editor at Confused.com advises drivers how to stay safe this winter. She says:

“Drivers should take heed of the wintery weather warnings as over 2,000 road accidents were reported in one year in icy and snowy conditions. Our research suggests half (49%) of the driving population try to avoid driving in such weather, but it’s not always an option. Motorists who are taking to the road should plan their journeys in advance, keeping to major roads where possible, as they are more likely to have been gritted.

“Before heading out drivers should give at least 10 minutes to allow time to de-ice their windscreens – if your windscreen is not cleared correctly, it can land you with up to £60 in fines or points on your licence. Using our guide, drivers can educate themselves and avoid fines at a time where motoring costs are increasingly on the up.