Don't ignore severe weather warnings

• Poll reveals 53% would ignore warnings
• Young men are most likely to drive on
• Road Safety Minister warns of perils

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The Highways Agency is urging motorists to stay at home in extreme weather conditions this winter, after a survey revealed that more than half of people would still travel even if a severe weather warning was issued.

The Agency's survey of 1300 motorists revealed that 53% would continue with their journey, prompting it to launch a new campaign highlighting the dangers of doing so.

Launching the campaign, Road Safety Minister Jim Fitzpatrick, said: 'The recent mild weather brings a risk that drivers could be lulled into a false sense of security.

'The British winter is not just about ice and snow. As we have seen this year, heavy rain, strong winds and fog are as much a part of the British climate and they can make driving hazardous.'

The survey revealed that young men are the worst for ignoring weather warnings. 62% of men said they would continue their journeys if a severe weather warning was issued, compared with 44% of women.

In addition, 40% of those aged over 65 said they would continue, as would 65% of 18-24-year-olds.