Risk of ice sign

What it means

Ice is likely on the road ahead in cold weather. A plate may say snowdrifts instead.

The snowflake warns of ice or snow on the road surface.

On ice it can take up to ten times as far to stop. Slow down, keep well back, and brake, steer and accelerate as gently as you can.

Where you'll see it

On exposed roads, hills and bridges that freeze before other roads.

Rules to know

• The sign warns of a risk of ice. 'Ice' may be varied to 'Snowdrifts'.

  Know Your Traffic Signs, p. 13

• In icy or snowy weather, keep well back from the road user in front, as stopping distances can be ten times greater than on dry roads.

  The Highway Code, Rule 230

• On icy roads, drive at a slow speed in as high a gear as possible, and accelerate and brake very gently.

  The Highway Code, Rule 231

Common mistakes

• Mistake: Thinking a gritted road cannot be icy.

  Instead: Drive with care even if the road has been treated. Ice can still form, especially in shaded spots.

Test yourself

Recalling the answer helps it stick. Pick an answer to see how you did.

Question 1 of 1

What does this sign mean?

• AThe road narrows on the right-hand side
• BWarns of a double bend ahead, first to the left.
• CCattle may be on the road ahead
• DRisk of ice on the road ahead

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