LEEDS, UNITED KINGDOM -- (Marketwire) -- 02/05/13 -- The temperamental UK weather can prove challenging for motorists as the conditions change so frequently.

Whilst extreme weather conditions are uncommon, motorists should still be prepared for different types of weather when driving.

Asda Money offers top driving tips for different weather conditions.

To minimise the chances of weather-related mishaps, drivers can take measures to increase their safety on the road, including taking out breakdown cover.

Sun

Driving in glorious sunshine can be a fun and enjoyable experience for many motorists; however, driving in glaring dawn or dusk sunlight can be a problem. Leave a greater distance between your vehicle and the car in front when driving in bright sunlight. Greater sunlight can reduce your visibility and reaction time. Tinting your car windows could be a long-term solution to sun glare.

It can help to use the visors to reduce the impact of the sun's glare as they are designed for this purpose, without reducing driver visibility.

Icy conditions

Adverse weather conditions can cause serious problems for UK motorists. The Highway Code advices motorists not to drive in these conditions unless the journey is essential(i).

Take extra care on the roads and drive slowly when the conditions are icy, even if the roads have been treated. Black ice, which cannot always be seen, is particularly dangerous. Driving in low gears to help improve traction, and navigating roads as slowly as possible, is advisable during slippery conditions(ii).

Snow

Driving in snow can be incredibly challenging for motorist depending on the severity of the weather. Under the Highway Code, it is a legal requirement that you must be able to see through your windscreen, the lights are clean and number plates are clearly visible and legible.

It is also important to keep a safe distance from the driver in front, as it can take up to ten times longer for drivers to stop when roads are covered in snow or ice(ii).

Notes to editors

(i) Source: The Highway Code, Driving in adverse weather conditions (226-237)

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/travelandtransport/highwaycode/dg_069859

(ii)Source: Institute of Advanced Motorists: 'Top tips for driving in winter weather'

http://www.iam.org.uk/media-and-research/media-centre/driving-and-riding-tips/351-iams-top-tips-for-driving-in-winter-weather

About Asda Breakdown Cover

--  77% of cars fixed at the roadside(i) 
--  Average response time under 42 minutes^ 
--  98% of customers satisfied with our serviceapprox. 
--  Cheaper than the AA & RAC(ii) 
--  Pay annually and save GBP 20 on UK breakdown and European cover 

(i) Fix rate of 77.4% taken from 66,170 returned agent invoices between 01 January and 31 August 2012.

^ Response time of 41.3 minutes taken from 42,096customer questionnaires during 1 January to 31 August 2012.

approx. Customer satisfaction of 98.4% taken from 42,096 customer questionnaires during 1 January to 31 August 2012.

(ii)Based on Asda UK Breakdown Cover compared to the nearest equivalent level of cover from the AA and RAC. Competitor's prices include discount available on 05/09/12 (online and call centre). Prices quoted are for annual payment only and relate to vehicle only cover and not personal cover.

Asda Money is a trading name of Asda Financial Services Limited. Asda Financial Services Limited uses a selection of companies to provide its products and services. Asda Financial Services Limited and Asda Stores Limited act as Introducer Appointed Representatives to Liverpool Victoria Insurance Company Limited for Breakdown Cover. Britannia and Britannia Rescue are registered trademarks and are trading styles of the Liverpool Victoria group of companies. Liverpool Victoria Insurance Company Limited, registered in England and Wales number 3232514 is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority, register number 202965. Registered address for all Liverpool Victoria companies: County Gates, Bournemouth BH1 2NF.