On Saturday, January 21, 2023 at 2:29:28 PM UTC, Mike Collins wrote:

>
> https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/live-liverpool-snow-updates-met-25993756

Despite hundreds of news media warnings NOT to drive.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-devon-64315001

When will they learn?

On Saturday, 21 January 2023 at 16:52:52 UTC, swldx...@gmail.com wrote:
> On Saturday, January 21, 2023 at 2:29:28 PM UTC, Mike Collins wrote:
>
> >
> > https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/live-liverpool-snow-updates-met-25993756
>
> Despite hundreds of news media warnings NOT to drive.
>
> https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-devon-64315001
>
> When will they learn?

You don't seem to understand motorists have a RIGHT to drive and The Government must ensure weather conditions are appropriate.

swldx...@gmail.com <swldxer1958@gmail.com> wrote:
> On Saturday, January 21, 2023 at 2:29:28 PM UTC, Mike Collins wrote:
>
>>
>> https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/live-liverpool-snow-updates-met-25993756
>
> Despite hundreds of news media warnings NOT to drive.
>
> https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-devon-64315001
>
> When will they learn?

Indeed…

<https://www.dailymail.co.uk/video/news/video-1956882/Video-Huge-bike-crash-cyclists-race-snowy-mountain-face.html>

--
Spike

On Saturday, January 21, 2023 at 6:31:21 PM UTC, Mike Collins wrote:

> >
> > https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-devon-64315001
> >
> > When will they learn?
> You don't seem to understand motorists have a RIGHT to drive and The Government must ensure weather conditions are appropriate.

Why are there constant warnings regarding "difficult driving conditions" but never any "difficult cycling conditions" alerts?

https://imageio.forbes.com/blogs-images/jimgorzelany/files/2015/12/chicago.jpg?format=jpg&width=960

You can carry your bike out of there - that's why.

swldx...@gmail.com <swldxer1958@gmail.com> wrote:
> On Saturday, January 21, 2023 at 6:31:21 PM UTC, Mike Collins wrote:

>>> https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-devon-64315001

>>> When will they learn?

>> You don't seem to understand motorists have a RIGHT to drive and The
>> Government must ensure weather conditions are appropriate.

> Why are there constant warnings regarding "difficult driving conditions"
> but never any "difficult cycling conditions" alerts?

> https://imageio.forbes.com/blogs-images/jimgorzelany/files/2015/12/chicago.jpg?format=jpg&width=960

> You can carry your bike out of there - that's why.

<https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=gIaFnEVfaic>

--
Spike

On Saturday, 21 January 2023 at 16:13:05 UTC, Mike Collins wrote:
> On Saturday, 21 January 2023 at 15:49:28 UTC, Spike wrote:
> > swldx...@gmail.com <swldx...@gmail.com> wrote:
> >
> > > A car driving past the signs for the pedestrian zone - THUS BREAKING THE LAW.
> > WRONG AGAIN!
> >
> > > https://i2-prod.cornwalllive.com/incoming/article4483359.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200e/0_Image-from-iOS-2.jpg
> >
> > There’s a teensy weeny detail you’ve overlooked….
> >
> You mean 99% of motorists rate their driving above average and are therefore not bound by the Highway Code because they drive according to the conditions.

Is your name Guy Chadwick? Do you waste thousands of hours and pounds in failed attempts to take people to court for making fun of you and your lies online? Where is your webshite these days? Do you encourage your children to wear helmets?

On Saturday, January 21, 2023 at 6:31:21 PM UTC, Mike Collins wrote:

> > https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-devon-64315001
> >
> > When will they learn?
> You don't seem to understand motorists have a RIGHT to drive and The Government must ensure weather conditions are appropriate.

On a heavy snowfall, the best bet really is to stay where you are. If you have to drive, there are a few things to look out for. Firstly, watch or listen to the local weather updates to make sure there are no sudden changes ahead, and check the current road conditions online. Plan your journey in advance, and let a family member or friend know your exact route, in case you get stuck somewhere.

BIKES CAN NEVER "GET STUCK".

On Sunday, 22 January 2023 at 07:02:28 UTC, swldx...@gmail.com wrote:
> On Saturday, January 21, 2023 at 6:31:21 PM UTC, Mike Collins wrote:
>
> > > https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-devon-64315001
> > >
> > > When will they learn?
> > You don't seem to understand motorists have a RIGHT to drive and The Government must ensure weather conditions are appropriate.
> On a heavy snowfall, the best bet really is to stay where you are. If you have to drive, there are a few things to look out for. Firstly, watch or listen to the local weather updates to make sure there are no sudden changes ahead, and check the current road conditions online. Plan your journey in advance, and let a family member or friend know your exact route, in case you get stuck somewhere.
>
> BIKES CAN NEVER "GET STUCK".

Capital letters don’t make your statements any less moronic.

https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo-bicycle-stuck-in-plowed-snow-pile-usa-79669017.html

Of course, this is why the fake killfile came into use, isn’t it? For those rare occasions when you were proven, categorically and unequivocally, wrong. A “face-saving” measure…

https://treeandneighborlawblog.files.wordpress.com/2019/01/horseleft190110.jpg

swldx...@gmail.com <swldxer1958@gmail.com> wrote:
> On Saturday, January 21, 2023 at 6:31:21 PM UTC, Mike Collins wrote:
>
>>> https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-devon-64315001
>>>
>>> When will they learn?
>> You don't seem to understand motorists have a RIGHT to drive and The
>> Government must ensure weather conditions are appropriate.
>
> On a heavy snowfall, the best bet really is to stay where you are. If you
> have to drive, there are a few things to look out for. Firstly, watch or
> listen to the local weather updates to make sure there are no sudden
> changes ahead, and check the current road conditions online. Plan your
> journey in advance, and let a family member or friend know your exact
> route, in case you get stuck somewhere.
>
> BIKES CAN NEVER "GET STUCK".

In all probability most of these got going again:

(Video safe except for cyclists)

<https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=B7qFZboIX5E>

--
Spike

Stick to the main roads where you can. You should drive with care and respect the road conditions wherever you drive, but if you cannot avoid driving on a minor road, take extra care
Only travel if really necessary. Snow ploughs are unable to get through if the road or motorway is full of stationary traffic, so do not make journeys unless completely necessary to give National Highways and local authorities the space they need to help you on your journey
Avoid steep hills and exposed roads hills and exposed areas are likely to present more challenging driving conditions in snow and ice.

Remember to give vulnerable road users including cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians more room than usual. They are more likely to be blown around by side winds – always keep a safe distance.

swldx...@gmail.com <swldxer1958@gmail.com> wrote:

> Stick to the main roads where you can. You should drive with care and
> respect the road conditions wherever you drive, but if you cannot avoid
> driving on a minor road, take extra care

> Only travel if really necessary. Snow ploughs are unable to get
> through if the road or motorway is full of stationary traffic, so do not
> make journeys unless completely necessary to give National Highways and
> local authorities the space they need to help you on your journey

> Avoid steep hills and exposed roads hills and exposed areas are
> likely to present more challenging driving conditions in snow and ice.

> Remember to give vulnerable road users including cyclists, motorcyclists
> and pedestrians more room than usual. They are more likely to be blown
> around by side winds – always keep a safe distance.

If cyclists riding in snow or ice conditions are likely to be blown about,
adding to the hazards, it’s hard to see how they can feel the safety they
demand to experience at other times. So Ultimate Safety is the demand,
except in snow, ice, and wind, and doubtless in other situations as well.
‘Safety at all (other people’s) cost!’ Well done cyclists, on the
doublethink.

--
Spike

WHAT A PALAVER - I JUST RIDE AND GO.

It is worth knowing how to prepare yourself and your car, while also considering different ways to approach your driving when faced with adverse conditions.

Is it illegal to drive with snow on your car? Yes - so remove it from your vehicle before you set off on your next journey.

The following tips can help make the journey safe. Before you set off, plan your journey carefully. Use the RAC Route Planner to get updates on traffic news to help make your journey as smooth as possible.

Consider areas that are going to be exposed to the elements, and perhaps prone to flooding. Keep up-to-date with local weather to ensure you aren't caught out.
Leave more time

Allow for more time than you normally would before you leave to clear car windows, mirrors, lights and the top of your roof of snow before setting off, driving with snow on you car could result in you breaking the law.

You will also need to de-ice your windscreen - which is a vital part of winter driving. Pay attention to these tips to keep your windscreen clear.

Knowing how to demist your windscreen in double-quick time can be equally as important.

It’s also a good idea to carry a lock de-icer with you to clear your lock. If your locks do get frozen, try warming the key or spraying de-icer or an oil-based lubricant into the lock.

The following checks will also be time consuming so it is worth factoring them in too before you set off.
Check your wipers

Make sure any auto wiper control is switched off before turning the ignition on as this could blow the wiper control fuse if they are frozen to the screen. Your wipers need to be in good working order so you’re able to clean your windscreen effectively.
Check your tyres

Check tyres for adequate tread. Poor tyres will not grip when driving on snow and ice.

If you live in an area where snow is common it might be worth changing to winter tyres with deeper tread.

If conditions are really bad you might want to consider the use of snow socks or even snow chains.
Check your screenwash

Use a good quality screenwash that protects down to at least -35 to prevent the water from freezing. If you don’t, your windscreen wipers could be rendered useless in extreme conditions - if you are unsure, you can check and top up your screenwash.
​Pack for the worst

Be prepared for every eventuality by ensuring that your car is equipped with the following: demisting pad, torch (wind-up so you don’t run out of battery), a hi-vis vest to make you visible if you break down, a blanket to keep you warm, some food, a drink, spare screenwash, de-icer, ice scraper, blanket, shovel, phone charger, map, a first aid kit, a warning triangle, some jump leads, a spade and a square of carpet that you can use to put under your drive wheels should you get stuck in the snow. Alternatively, you can buy RAC Recovery Track which will get you out of the snow as well as mud and sand.

The most important thing to take with you before driving in snow is a charged mobile phone with the phone number of your breakdown provider stored in it so you can always call for help.

Should I buy winter tyres?
Ten signs your car isn't ready for winter
Advice for safe driving on ice

FREE battery replacement

For a limited time, new customers can get free battery replace worth £36 with their RAC Breakdown Cover.*
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How to drive in snow

Wear comfortable and dry footwear
Accelerate gently, use low revs and change up to a higher gear as quickly as possible
Move off in second gear as this will help reduce wheel slip - some cars have a winter mode, which does the same job – so to check whether your car has this function in the vehicle’s handbook
Get your speed right and maintain safe stopping distances between you and the car in front, leaving as much as 10 times the normal recommended gap
Prepare for an uphill by leaving plenty of room in front so you can maintain a constant speed without the need for changing gear
Use a low gear for going downhill and try to avoid braking unless necessary, make sure you leave plenty of space between you and the car in front
When approaching a bend, brake before you actually start to turn the steering wheel. If your car does lose grip try not to panic; the key thing is to take your foot off the accelerator and make sure that your wheels are pointing in the direction you want to go in
If you do encounter a skid, steer gently into it - for example, if the rear of the car is sliding to the right, steer to the right. Do not take your hands off the steering wheel or stamp your foot on the brakes
When driving in heavy snow, make sure that you use your dipped headlights. Relying on daytime running lights is not enough, because they don’t always put lights on the back of your car.
If visibility drops below a 100m, put your fog lights on. But remember to turn them off when the visibility improves.
If the road has not been gritted, be wary of driving in the wheeltracks or other vehicles as compressed snow is likely to be more icy than fresh snow
Controls such as the brakes, as well as the steering, accelerator and even gear changing should be operated smoothly and slowly
Sunglasses can help to reduce the glare of low winter sun on the snow
Keep your speed down and allow more time to stop and steer
Finally, it’s important to think about the environment that you’re driving in, especially microclimates that might appear on the road. These are areas that perhaps the sun hasn’t got to, which could stay icy when the rest of the road has thawed. Bridges are a good example.. They’re normally the first to freeze and the last to thaw. So be aware of that when you’re driving in open spaces.

Make sure you keep your car clean. The salt used to de-ice roads can cause corrosion to your car over time, so it’s worth making a point of cleaning it regularly throughout the winter months.
Winter tyres, snow socks or snow chains?

Each of these products will help you tackle the snowy elements, but which should you buy to best suit your driving needs?

Winter tyres

These are alternatives to the standard summer tyres that most cars are fitted with and offer more grip in adverse weather conditions such as rain, ice and snow
They significantly improve a car's performance in these conditions but may not be able to tackle very deep snow
They are not a legal requirement in England like they are in some countries but are recommended for those who live in more remote areas which are more heavily and more regularly affected by adverse weather conditions
It is important to check if you need winter tyres in your area

Snow socks

Snow socks offer more grip on snow and are useful to have in your boot in case you need to drive in:
Unexpected snow - for instance when taking a back road that hasn't been cleared of snow
Tackling a snowed in driveway
They are a cheaper alternative to winter tyres but must be removed when the road is clear again
They are easier to fit then snow chains are not suitable for very deep snow

Snow chains

Snow chains offer the best grip in snowy conditions
They are best suited for deeper snow
They must be removed when snow clears or when driving on a clear road as they could damage your car and the road
They are more time consuming to fit than socks
They are a mandatory requirement in some countries

Snow chains must only be used on a layer of compacted snow and should be removed once you reach a clear section of road. You risk damaging your car and the road if you ignore this advice, double check this info when purchasing your snow chains.

In some European countries, carrying a set of snow chains in the boot is a mandatory requirement, which is worth considering if you’re planning a skiing holiday. Driving abroad in winter presents its own challenges. Normally these countries sign post (below) when snow chains are a legal requirement.

In the UK, the opportunities to use snow chains might be few and far between, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have their uses.

In the more remote and hilly regions of the country, where the roads might not be treated, fitting snow chains could be the difference between getting home and being left stranded at the roadside.

On 22/01/2023 07:02 am, swldx...@gmail.com wrote:

> On Saturday, January 21, 2023 at 6:31:21 PM UTC, Mike Collins wrote:
>
>>> https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-devon-64315001
>
>>> When will they learn?
>> You don't seem to understand motorists have a RIGHT to drive and The Government must ensure weather conditions are appropriate.
>
> On a heavy snowfall, the best bet really is to stay where you are. If you have to drive, there are a few things to look out for. Firstly, watch or listen to the local weather updates to make sure there are no sudden changes ahead, and check the current road conditions online. Plan your journey in advance, and let a family member or friend know your exact route, in case you get stuck somewhere.

Wow!

SHOCK!

Mason says something sensible for once!

READ ALL ABOUT IT!

> BIKES CAN NEVER "GET STUCK".

Nevertheless, you don't often see a fairy-cyclist carrying his or her
fairy-cycle, do you?

Especially not in snow.

FWIW, living on a bus route which has a fire station nearby, I find that
obligatory traffic usually soon clears the snow from the road. It's up
to me to clear it from the driveway, across the footway and onto that
road. That's physical work for about an hour, including the application
of rock salt (which I always keep in the garage).

Fairy-cyclists round here seem more sensible and cautious round here
than they must do around where Mason lives. You never see fairy-cyclists
round here in snowy or icy conditions.

On 22/01/2023 10:35 am, Spike wrote:

> swldx...@gmail.com <swldxer1958@gmail.com> wrote:
>> On Saturday, January 21, 2023 at 6:31:21 PM UTC, Mike Collins wrote:
>
>>>> https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-devon-64315001
>
>>>> When will they learn?

>>> You don't seem to understand motorists have a RIGHT to drive and The
>>> Government must ensure weather conditions are appropriate.
>
>> On a heavy snowfall, the best bet really is to stay where you are. If you
>> have to drive, there are a few things to look out for. Firstly, watch or
>> listen to the local weather updates to make sure there are no sudden
>> changes ahead, and check the current road conditions online. Plan your
>> journey in advance, and let a family member or friend know your exact
>> route, in case you get stuck somewhere.
>
>> BIKES CAN NEVER "GET STUCK".
>
> In all probability most of these got going again:
> (Video safe except for cyclists)
>
> <https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=B7qFZboIX5E>

They all seem to be wearing H^^^^^s.

On Sunday, January 22, 2023 at 1:31:32 PM UTC, swldx...@gmail.com wrote:
> WHAT A PALAVER - I JUST RIDE AND GO.

Oh dear - now what?

Stuck: Two cars do their best to navigate a snow-covered road as difficult driving conditions from snow arrive outside the town of Coleraine, County Londonderry

https://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/12/14/article-2074037-0F2C865F00000578-938_634x409.jpg

On Sunday, 22 January 2023 at 14:15:03 UTC, JNugent wrote:
> On 22/01/2023 10:35 am, Spike wrote:
>
> > swldx...@gmail.com <swldx...@gmail.com> wrote:
> >> On Saturday, January 21, 2023 at 6:31:21 PM UTC, Mike Collins wrote:
> >
> >>>> https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-devon-64315001
> >
> >>>> When will they learn?
>
> >>> You don't seem to understand motorists have a RIGHT to drive and The
> >>> Government must ensure weather conditions are appropriate.
> >
> >> On a heavy snowfall, the best bet really is to stay where you are. If you
> >> have to drive, there are a few things to look out for. Firstly, watch or
> >> listen to the local weather updates to make sure there are no sudden
> >> changes ahead, and check the current road conditions online. Plan your
> >> journey in advance, and let a family member or friend know your exact
> >> route, in case you get stuck somewhere.
> >
> >> BIKES CAN NEVER "GET STUCK".
> >
> > In all probability most of these got going again:
> > (Video safe except for cyclists)
> >
> > <https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=B7qFZboIX5E>
> They all seem to be wearing H^^^^^s.

And?

On 25/01/2023 04:34 pm, Mike Collins wrote:

> On Sunday, 22 January 2023 at 14:15:03 UTC, JNugent wrote:
>> On 22/01/2023 10:35 am, Spike wrote:
>>> swldx...@gmail.com <swldx...@gmail.com> wrote:
>>>> On Saturday, January 21, 2023 at 6:31:21 PM UTC, Mike Collins wrote:
>
>>>>>> https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-devon-64315001
>
>>>>>> When will they learn?
>
>>>>> You don't seem to understand motorists have a RIGHT to drive and The
>>>>> Government must ensure weather conditions are appropriate.
>
>>>> On a heavy snowfall, the best bet really is to stay where you are. If you
>>>> have to drive, there are a few things to look out for. Firstly, watch or
>>>> listen to the local weather updates to make sure there are no sudden
>>>> changes ahead, and check the current road conditions online. Plan your
>>>> journey in advance, and let a family member or friend know your exact
>>>> route, in case you get stuck somewhere.
>
>>>> BIKES CAN NEVER "GET STUCK".
>
>>> In all probability most of these got going again:
>>> (Video safe except for cyclists)
>
>>> <https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=B7qFZboIX5E>

>> They all seem to be wearing H^^^^^s.
>
> And?

And that makes the picture a rather odd one to be adduced by His Royal
Highness "No Sweat" Del Boy as evidence of anything positive.

Innit?

On Wednesday, 25 January 2023 at 16:34:09 UTC, Mike Collins wrote:
> On Sunday, 22 January 2023 at 14:15:03 UTC, JNugent wrote:
> > On 22/01/2023 10:35 am, Spike wrote:
> >
> > > swldx...@gmail.com <swldx...@gmail.com> wrote:
> > >> On Saturday, January 21, 2023 at 6:31:21 PM UTC, Mike Collins wrote:
> > >
> > >>>> https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-devon-64315001
> > >
> > >>>> When will they learn?
> >
> > >>> You don't seem to understand motorists have a RIGHT to drive and The
> > >>> Government must ensure weather conditions are appropriate.
> > >
> > >> On a heavy snowfall, the best bet really is to stay where you are. If you
> > >> have to drive, there are a few things to look out for. Firstly, watch or
> > >> listen to the local weather updates to make sure there are no sudden
> > >> changes ahead, and check the current road conditions online. Plan your
> > >> journey in advance, and let a family member or friend know your exact
> > >> route, in case you get stuck somewhere.
> > >
> > >> BIKES CAN NEVER "GET STUCK".
> > >
> > > In all probability most of these got going again:
> > > (Video safe except for cyclists)
> > >
> > > <https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=B7qFZboIX5E>
> > They all seem to be wearing H^^^^^s.
> And?

Do you support the concept of pretending helmets are less effective than they are as a means of heading off possible compulsion?

A hypothetical question, of course (which gives you an excuse not to answer should you need one). I mean, no-one would ever be irresponsible enough to contemplate doing such a thing.

On Wednesday, 25 January 2023 at 17:02:45 UTC, PeterG...@protonmail.com wrote:
> On Wednesday, 25 January 2023 at 16:34:09 UTC, Mike Collins wrote:
> > On Sunday, 22 January 2023 at 14:15:03 UTC, JNugent wrote:
> > > On 22/01/2023 10:35 am, Spike wrote:
> > >
> > > > swldx...@gmail.com <swldx...@gmail.com> wrote:
> > > >> On Saturday, January 21, 2023 at 6:31:21 PM UTC, Mike Collins wrote:
> > > >
> > > >>>> https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-devon-64315001
> > > >
> > > >>>> When will they learn?
> > >
> > > >>> You don't seem to understand motorists have a RIGHT to drive and The
> > > >>> Government must ensure weather conditions are appropriate.
> > > >
> > > >> On a heavy snowfall, the best bet really is to stay where you are. If you
> > > >> have to drive, there are a few things to look out for. Firstly, watch or
> > > >> listen to the local weather updates to make sure there are no sudden
> > > >> changes ahead, and check the current road conditions online. Plan your
> > > >> journey in advance, and let a family member or friend know your exact
> > > >> route, in case you get stuck somewhere.
> > > >
> > > >> BIKES CAN NEVER "GET STUCK".
> > > >
> > > > In all probability most of these got going again:
> > > > (Video safe except for cyclists)
> > > >
> > > > <https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=B7qFZboIX5E>
> > > They all seem to be wearing H^^^^^s.
> > And?
> Do you support the concept of pretending helmets are less effective than they are as a means of heading off possible compulsion?
>
> A hypothetical question, of course (which gives you an excuse not to answer should you need one). I mean, no-one would ever be irresponsible enough to contemplate doing such a thing.

I have no idea what you are talking about. I would wear a helmet if I was involved in a cycle race because there is a high chance of being involved in a single or multi-cycle crash. This does not apply to utility cycling. Just because those involved in motor racing wear helmets does it mean utility motorists should wear a helmet on the Sainsbury Run?

On Wednesday, January 25, 2023 at 5:43:49 PM UTC, Mike Collins wrote:
Just because those involved in motor racing wear helmets does it mean utility motorists should wear a helmet on the Sainsbury Run?

Seems sensible:

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FnVt2CIWYAomnDM?format=jpg&name=medium

On Wednesday, 25 January 2023 at 18:50:47 UTC, swldx...@gmail.com wrote:
> On Wednesday, January 25, 2023 at 5:43:49 PM UTC, Mike Collins wrote:
> Just because those involved in motor racing wear helmets does it mean utility motorists should wear a helmet on the Sainsbury Run?
> Seems sensible:
>
> https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FnVt2CIWYAomnDM?format=jpg&name=medium

https://digital.library.adelaide.edu.au/dspace/handle/2440/32240