Drivers warned to expect severe weather on major motorways this week risking £5,000 fines
Drivers are being warned they could face fines of up to £5,000 and potential disqualification from driving for reckless travelling as snow is set to hit large parts of the UK from Monday evening.
The warning comes as up to 20cm of snow is predicted to hit some areas of the UK, with National Highways issuing an amber alert for the North East and North West regions.
Motorists must ensure their vehicles are completely clear of snow before travelling, as driving with snow on the roof, windscreen or mirrors presents a significant safety risk and could result in prosecution under road safety laws.
National Highways has issued a weather warning effective from 7pm Monday until 10am Tuesday in the North East and North West.
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The alert warns of significant risks to vehicles using major roads, with potential for extended or disrupted travel times. Several key routes are expected to be severely affected, including the Woodhead Pass (A628) and M62 between junctions 21 and 23, where 10 to 15cm of snow is possible with risks of blown snow.
The M6 near Shap could see 10 to 15cm of snow, while the M56 around Manchester may experience two to five cm of snowfall. Motorists are strongly advised to avoid these areas if possible during the alert period.
The A66 at Old Spittal and Stainmore is expected to see 10-15cm of snow, while the A69 could experience five to 10cm of snowfall.
While not explicitly illegal to drive with snow on your car, the Highway Code requires drivers to have a clear view without snow, ice or condensation obscuring their vision.
Motorists could face charges under multiple road safety laws if snow falls from their vehicle and impacts other road users. Driving without due care and attention under section 3 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 carries a fine of up to £5,000, nine penalty points, and possible disqualification.
Additionally, driving a vehicle in a dangerous condition under section 40A of the Road Traffic Act 1988 can result in a £2,500 fine and three penalty points.
Alan Thomas, CEO of Ripe Motorhome Insurance, said: “With the weather set to turn very wintery across the UK this week, many of us will be setting off on car journeys either in the snow or following some snowfall.
He added: “Whilst it looks beautiful, snow creates extremely hazardous conditions for driving, both to yourself and to others. Remember to clear all snow from your car before you set off – it’s a couple of extra minutes but could save you a huge fine and, more importantly, will make the roads much safer for everyone around you.”
Rhydian Jones, motor expert at Confused.com car insurance, has provided essential guidance for those who must travel in snowy conditions.
“Allow plenty of time for your journey as you may need to drop your speed to navigate trickier road conditions,” Jones advises.
Key recommendations include sticking to major gritted roads and maintaining up to ten times the normal stopping distance from vehicles ahead. Jones emphasises gentle acceleration and careful gear changes, adding that drivers should steer gently into any skids rather than braking suddenly.
He also advises using dipped headlights in heavy snow and ensuring vehicles are properly prepared with adequate tyre tread and a breakdown kit.
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Road users are advised to check Traffic England or call the National Highways Information Line on 0300 123 5000 for the latest updates.
National Highways, working with the Met Office, warned that these conditions are likely to cause significant disruption to journey times. The severe weather alert is separate from Met Office warnings and specifically relates to risks on major trunk roads and motorways.