Road conditions can be tricky, especially during periods of extreme weather. But our fleet of gritter drivers are out there during the worst of the weather, doing everything they can to make conditions as safe as possible.

For the second year in a row, we are providing a dedicated gritter tracking map on our website. This allows you to see, in real time, the routes our gritters are taking – and the names of the gritters which were chosen by local school pupils will also be on display.

Chair of South Lanarkshire Council’s Community and Enterprise Resources Committee, Councillor John Anderson, said: “The gritter tracking map lets everyone see exactly where the gritters are at any given point in the day.

“Of course it’s important to point out that many of them are out making the roads safe for everyone while we are tucked up in our beds – so you may need to get up early if you want to see them in action!

“Although a fun and interactive way to see what is going on, it also sends an important message that our drivers are out there no matter how severe the weather.

“They deserve an immense amount of credit for their hard work, professionalism and dedication.”

Driving always requires constant care and attention but during winter specific driving skills should also be used.

Councillor Anderson added: “We hope that today’s information makes motorists realise that winter can present some very unique driving conditions.

“Our tips will be useful but please be aware that you should always drive to a road’s condition, and in extreme conditions it may be advisable not to use your vehicle at all unless your journey is absolutely essential.

“The most important message is to stay safe at all times.”

Snow and ice

• Always clear snow and ice from your vehicle before driving – snow sliding off the roof or bonnet could block your view and be a danger to yourself and other road users
• Avoid harsh steering, braking and acceleration especially with dangers of black ice
• Remember that even after gritting has taken place, ice and snow may still be present. It takes time for grit to take effect, especially if roads are quiet

Gritters

• You can now follow our gritters in real time on our website – along with the names of the gritters which were chosen by local school pupils – Gritting Routes
• Stay back from gritters and don’t overtake
• Even after gritters have been treating roads, ice can still form afterwards

Fog

• Use dipped headlights and your fog lights – high beam does not make it easier to see
• Don’t speed up if visibility suddenly improves – more fog patches are likely

High winds

• High sided vehicles have particular difficulties and may swerve suddenly due to severe gusts especially along exposed sections of roads and bridges
• Keep a safe distance especially when passing a high sided vehicle

Heavy rain

• Watch out for water ponding - if your vehicle loses grip, or begins to aquaplane, take your foot off the accelerator to slow down – do not use the brakes

Top tip: If you get stuck in a snowdrift, use the highest gear you can to move slowly backwards and forwards to try and get out

For more information see:

• Roads in Winter pages on the council website
• Ready Scotland for advice on winter at home, travelling, at work and in the community
• Driving in bad weather from Transport Scotland

ENDS ALL