AA General Manager of Motoring Affairs Mike Noon says that people need to be particularly careful early in the day and on areas of road that see little sun, are shaded or are at higher altitudes.

“If possible plan your trip later in the day so the morning sun can melt the frost and remember that roads can start re-icing once it gets dark,” says Mr Noon.

“If you see ice warning signs on the road, take particular care and drop your speeds dramatically if you sense the road may be icy and slippery.

“On clear winter days, as well as frost risk the sun can be bright and low in the sky,” says Mr Noon.

“To avoid being blinded by sun-strike, use your sun visor before the sun hits your eyes and make sure your windscreen washer tank is full so you can keep your windscreen clean and smear free.”

Mr Noon also recommends that people allow an extra minute or two when they start their car to properly demist their vehicle before they head off.

He adds that in winter it is important to check your tyres are not worn and are correctly inflated because you want as much grip on the road as possible in icy or wet conditions.

The AA has recently endorsed a UN resolution for a global Decade of Action for Road Safety and is committed to playing a greater role in New Zealand road safety.

For more winter driving tips see www.aa.co.nz

For more information contact

Mike Noon
General Manager: Motoring Affairs
New Zealand Automobile Association
M. +64 21 659 704
Email: mnoon@aa.co.nz

The New Zealand Automobile Association is an incorporated society with over one million members. It represents the interests of road users who collectively pay over $2 billion in taxes each year through fuels excise, road user charges and GST.