Drivers across the UK are being urged to delay their morning journeys by at least one hour after sunrise to navigate the treacherous conditions of the ongoing cold snap safely. This critical advice comes directly from the RAC, the breakdown and recovery service, which has seen a massive surge in emergency call-outs.
Why You Should Wait That Extra Hour
The RAC's recommendation is designed to allow two key things to happen. First, ambient temperatures have a chance to rise slightly from their overnight lows. Second, and crucially, it provides time for local authority gritting teams to treat major road surfaces effectively. Many residential streets, however, remain untreated and are particularly hazardous.
By postponing travel, motorists can avoid the peak danger period for "black ice" – a thin, transparent layer of ice that is often invisible on tarmac. The RAC warns that numerous accidents occur in the early morning when drivers underestimate how slippery roads remain, even after sunrise.
Surge in Breakdowns as Arctic Blast Hits
The so-called "Arctic blast" has caused widespread vehicle failures, with breakdown patrols reporting two predominant issues. Battery failures are the most common problem, as modern car batteries struggle to deliver the necessary power to start an engine when temperatures plunge below freezing. The second most frequent issue is frozen engine components.
For those who must travel, allowing double the usual time for a commute is advised to account for significantly slower speeds. If a journey is not absolutely essential, the safest advice remains to stay at home until the worst of the freeze has passed.
Essential Five-Minute Vehicle Check
Before setting off in sub-zero conditions, the RAC reminds all drivers to conduct a thorough check of their vehicle. This should take around five minutes and is vital for winter safety.
- Ensure all windows and mirrors are completely clear of ice and frost.
- Check that tyre pressures are correct for cold, wintry conditions.
- Make sure you have a set of jump leads and a warm blanket in the boot.
Starting a journey later gives road salt more time to react with ice and improve traction. While major A-roads are being gritted around the clock, patience in the morning could be the key to avoiding a breakdown or a serious accident on untreated routes.
