Wintry conditions prompt safe driving call for motorists across Victoria

Motorists are being urged to take care if travelling to mountainous regions across the state this winter, with recent snow flurries and stormy conditions presenting challenging scenarios for those underprepared.

Despite a slow start to the winter season, wintry conditions have settled in across the state in recent weeks, with alpine roads increasingly impacted by intermittent fog, ice, and snow.

Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) is encouraging all Victorians eager to visit the state’s snowfields and elevated viewpoints to take steps to ensure their safety throughout the journey.

VICSES is the state’s control agency during snow storms and blizzards, and often supports its emergency service partners in a variety of capacities throughout the winter.

In challenging wintry conditions, all vehicles must carry snow chains if travelling to areas likely to be impacted by snow, in order to limit the likelihood of an emergency response.

If instructed to fit snow chains to your vehicle, it is a legal requirement to do so.

Cold temperatures can also result in the development of black ice overnight or on areas of the road rarely exposed to sunlight, highlighting the importance of slowing down and proceeding with caution when travelling to and from the snowfields.

If driving in foggy conditions, motorists are encouraged to use fog lights with their regular headlights on low beam, or drive while using their hazard lights to illuminate their surroundings.

If motorists have inadequate visibility of the road’s edge, they are encouraged to pull to a safe place on the side of the road and keep their engine running until it is safe to proceed.

For more information around winter driving, visit https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/safety-and-road-rules/driver-safety/snow-and-winter-driving.

If you require VICSES assistance, call 132 500, or call 000 in an emergency.

Quotes attributable to Shane McBride, VICSES State Duty Officer

“Winter weather can create a range of challenges for motorists across the state, and it’s vital drivers know how to properly prepare and navigate these challenges safely.

“With many of the state’s elevated peaks now boasting snow, it’s a timely reminder to slow down and take care when travelling to enjoy nature this winter.

“Stay vigilant for rapidly changing conditions and make sure to frequently monitor updates from the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) or Vic Emergency website and application for any alerts or guidance which may be released.”