Following two crashes in central Tasmania this morning, police are urging all motorists to be cautious for hazardous roads and to drive to the conditions.

“With ice on our roads this morning, which is predicted to continue for the coming days, it’s timely for police to remind all motorists of the importance of driving to the conditions and being alert for ice on our roads,” said Inspector Jim Semmens.

“This morning police responded to a crash at Arthurs Lake and another at Miena, with early investigations indicating icy road conditions contributed to both crashes.

“Winter brings adverse road conditions such as ice, rain and snow, which make road surfaces slippery, and it’s imperative motorists drive to the conditions to prevent crashes.”

There are a number of safety actions that can be taken by motorists whilst driving in adverse weather conditions include:

• Drive to the conditions which means reducing speed to allow plenty of time to stop safely.
• Be aware the roads can become slippery from rain, hail, ice and snow.
• Leave plenty of space between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead – four seconds at least in poor conditions.
• Increasing your reactionary gap to the vehicle in front increases your safety.
• Don’t allow distractions (i.e. mobile phones) to affect your judgement and reaction times.
• Pay attention to road warning signs about hazardous conditions.
• Drive with headlights on when visibility is poor.
• Ensure tyres are in good condition and are correctly inflated.
• Ensure windscreen is free of ice, clean and the demister is working as it should.
• Ensure wiper blades work and are in good condition.

**Media interview opportunity:

Inspector James Semmens will hold a press conference today at 3pm at Rosny Hill Lookout.