Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Before heading out onto the M5, check traffic conditions on the Traffic England website. You can search every motorway and narrow your search between junctions which you specify. The current speed of traffic is displayed, giving you a fair gauge of how the weather is affecting other drivers.
The Highways Agency provides drivers in the UK with advice for driving in winter conditions. Short of putting winter tires on your car for that occasional snowfall, maintain your tires by checking the tread depth before each winter season and the tire pressure regularly throughout the winter. Treads should be at least 1.6 millimeters (about .06 inches) through the center of the tire. Tire pressure varies from vehicle to vehicle.
The Highway Agency also has a few general winter driving tips. Make sure the headlights are cleaned and your windshield and wipers are clean and working. Pack an emergency kit, including an ice scraper, flashlight, jumper cables, shovel and reflective warning sign. Be mindful of changing road conditions, such as passing under a bridge, and keep extra distance from other vehicles.