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Winter Driving
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People sometimes say that we are always being taken by surprise when it snows, but in fact every year the council prepares very carefully to provide as high a level of service as possible, we just cannot give any guarantees that the road network will be free of ice and snow at all times.
If bad weather coincides with the rush-hour for example, there is more traffic congestion on the roads than usual and the gritters and snow ploughs have difficulty getting through. Weather forecasting has improved greatly in recent years but sudden weather changes do occur. Sometimes we can salt the roads overnight, only for the salt to be washed away by rain, which can then freeze over again before we have had time to repeat the salting.
Please remember that when roads have been salted it takes time for the salt to be effective and in very low temperatures even rock salt can't prevent ice forming on the roads.
Driving Advice
The following advice has been endorsed by South Yorkshire Police and the AA. Some things are obvious, like checking the weather forecast before you set out and considering if your journey is really necessary anyway. If it is, perhaps public transport would be a better alternative.
If you really do need to go by car, make sure you allow extra time for your journey and check your car:
- make sure you have enough petrol
- that your battery is alright
- that your tyres are suitable
- that you carry a shovel in the boot
- that you carry a bit of rock salt (which can be purchased from the Council by calling 2734567)
Then remember to adapt your driving to the conditions:
- don't over-rev the engine or your wheels will spin
- use as high a gear as possible to improve grip
- on hills, build your speed up slowly
- always brake gently and in plenty of time
- don't block junctions or roundabouts
- keep more distance than usual from the car in front
- give cyclists more space
- keep a look out for pedestrians particularly at Zebras, Pelicans and schools.
If you do break down or have to abandon your vehicle, do push it off the carriageway or tramlines. Drivers are understandably frustrated when the snow has not been cleared, yet abandoned cars and stationary vehicles are two of the main obstacles which get in the way of the snow ploughs.
Remember, at times of heavy snow many people experience difficulties, so if you can, please try and help others.
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