THE Highways Agency today (Friday) advised drivers to take extra care while driving as the Met Office forecast severe gales and heavy rain for many parts of the country overnight and into tomorrow.

Drivers of high-sided vehicles or towing caravans, motorcyclists and cyclists should take extra care when strong winds are forecast. Motorcyclists may be affected by turbulence caused by large vehicles, and should keep well back when overtaking high-sided vehicles. Drivers should follow the advice on signs at locations vulnerable to high winds, slow down and pull over at the next safe stopping place during severe winds.

Rain and spray can reduce visibility and more than double the distance it takes to stop, so drivers are advised to use headlights and keep well back from the vehicle in front.

If water on the road surface is reducing grip and making steering unresponsive, ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually.

The Highways Agency, which manages and operates motorways and many major roads in England, advises drivers that to help them stay safe on the roads during winter they should to plan their journeys.

Up-to-date information on road conditions on England's motorways and major roads, is available on the Agency website at http://www.highways.gov.uk or call 08457 504030. For information on weather conditions, visit the Met Office website at http://www.metoffice.gov.uk or listen to local radio broadcasts.