With temperatures forecast to plummet during the weekend leading to freezing road temperatures persisting for much of the coming week, there could be dangerous road conditions across Devon, the County Council warned today.

There is also the possibility of significant snowfalls early next week which would cause further disruption on the roads although this is less certain at this time.

County Council road safety experts are advising motorists to take heed of weather warnings, avoid unnecessary overnight journeys and drive with extreme care on all roads, leaving plenty of braking room between themselves and other vehicles.

The warning comes after a prolonged period of mild wet weather has saturated the ground and left a lot of surface water and run-off on the county's roads.

Council experts are concerned that with temperatures predicted to fall well below freezing and wintry showers also forecast, unwary motorists could be caught out by the rapid change.

The County Council has been a world leader in the use of ice detection technology since the 1980s, but the authority says drivers have to play their part as well to help avoid tragedies on the roads this winter.

The County Council will be salting the county's major and more heavily trafficked roads during the weekend and next week, to help reduce delays and accidents.

But motorists should never assume a road has been salted and even salted roads must be viewed with caution.

Although the salt will prevent ice formation or melt the ice if temperatures are not too low, the surface will be wet and very cold, so great care must be taken and any signs warning of slippery roads, bends or other hazards must be taken seriously.

Rain running off nearby fields is an additional hazard which can result in salt being washed away, and leave roads vulnerable to freezing.

Councillor David Morrish, Devon County Council's Cabinet portfolio holder for the Environment, says it is important for drivers to realise that they have a crucial role to play in road safety.

He commented: 'County Council experts monitor conditions across nearly 8,000 miles of road 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They analyse data from sophisticated technology ranging from ice detection sensors to weather radar and can rapidly call up teams of engineers to help avert or tackle problems.

'But it is vital that every motorist prepares sensibly for winter weather. The County Council will do its best to provide warnings and salt the main routes to reduce potential dangers, but motorists have to play their part as well by exercising great caution during bad weather."

Tim Hipwell, Devon County Council's Accident Investigation Officer added: 'Drivers can help by making sure their vehicles are fit for the challenge of bad weather. Cold starts, the need for lights, heated rear screens and demisters on full blast can quickly overwhelm a battery, especially if the subsequent journey is a short one.

'Clean windows are a must, so a good clean inside and out before setting off is a good habit to develop as is ensuring that antifreeze levels are adequate. Tyres should also have plenty of tread and be at the correct pressure to make driving safer all round.

'Snow and ice covered roads offer much less grip than dry ones so driving needs to be adjusted to suit the conditions. Stopping distances increase dramatically so even more room is needed up to the car in front. Two wheeled vehicles and pedestrians are particularly vulnerable in slippery conditions and drivers should take extra care when passing them.'

Advice on winter motoring is available in a handy County Council leaflet, Travelling in Winter, which can be obtained by calling 01392 383439 and is also available on the County Council's award winning Information Devon website at: www.devon.gov.uk/wmaint/.

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