Police warning as snow falls across West Sussex

Light snow was continuing to fall along the coast by mid-morning, with weather forecasters predicting further accumulations of up to 5cm (2inch) by midnight.

A police spokesman said: “There’s not a great deal of snow falling at the moment, but the temperature is hovering at or just below freezing and the roads are slippery in places. Some drivers are just not making allowances for the conditions.

“In icy conditions it will take a lot longer to bring your vehicle to a stop. Allow greater stopping distances between you and the vehicle in front – at least 10 times the normal distance – and keep your speed appropriate to the conditions.

“Keep your driving smooth, avoid sudden turning, braking or acceleration. Areas under trees, in shadow and on bridges tend to remain colder for longer, so beware that there may still be ice patches even if the rest of the road is clear.”

He urged motorist to make sure that mirrors and all windows and lights were clear of ice, frost or condensation before setting out on journeys.

“On cold mornings, it is all too easy to jump in your car and drive off, but it is important that you have a good view of the road all around you from the start.

“Spring may be just around the corner, but while it may be warm and cosy inside your car, it’s cold, icy and potentially very hazardous outside it. Please think!”