Ref. 28840Drivers are five times more likely to skid on snowy or icy roads as they are on dry roads.

And the number of accidents caused by wet road conditions more than doubles in winter.

It is a dangerous time for drivers, but there are plenty of things they can do to reduce the risk of an accident.

Kevin Clinton, Head of Road Safety at the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, said: "In poor conditions good visibility is vital.

"Always keep the windscreen and windows clear and check your lights are clean and working.

"In snow, stop frequently to clean windows, the wheel arches, the lights and number plates.

"Reduce your speed on slippery surfaces, avoid harsh braking and acceleration and increase the gap between you and the vehicle in front.

"Allow up to 10 times the normal distance for braking especially on motorways.

"Before setting out, listen to the news and weather forecasts and allow plenty of time for your journey.

"If conditions are very bad, avoid making the journey unless it is absolutely necessary."

Tyre manufacturers are predictably urging drivers to replace their conventional tyres with specialist winter tyres during cold spells.

They also offer the following advice:

n Check tyre pressure under cold conditions every four weeks.

n Check tyres for damage, looking out for any cuts, cracks or bulges, as these can lead to slow punctures and blowouts.

n Check the tread depth of tyres as this decreases, braking distances increase.

The minimum legal UK tread depth is 1.6mm, but at least 3mm of tread is recommended for winter motoring.

The AA suggests drivers check their anti-freeze strength and try to change the coolant and anti-freeze every two years at least.

Dead batteries top the AA's call-out list, accounting for about one in five winter breakdowns each year.

Batteries rarely last longer than five years, and the AA advises replacing them near the end of their life to save time and inconvenience when they finally fizzle out.

The RAC warns against using warm water from a kettle to get rid of ice on the windscreen, as it could end up cracking.

And in case of a breakdown in severe conditions it recommends drivers tell someone else their departure time, route, destination and estimated time of arrival.

Andy Tate