With the cold weather snap continuing many drivers find themselves spending extra time de-icing their cars in the morning, but new research shows that there are thousands of drivers who don’t bother.

A survey conducted by Halfords found that from the 2,000 motorists polled, 35 per cent revealed that they had driven their car with the windscreen misted up or covered in ice! An action that could not only result in an instant £60 fine and three penalty points on the licence, but also endangers other vehicles and pedestrians on the road.

The same research said that 16 per cent had reversed without having clear visibility through their rear window, while a quarter have driven with snow on the roof, a dangerous manoeuvre which could see the snow slip down the windscreen when braking.

It seems large sections of the UK public are completely unprepared for their icy cars in the morning, a fifth of drivers risk cracking their windscreen by pouring warm or hot water over the ice, 14 per cent have risked damaging their engine by over-revving it to warm up the car and a quarter of those polled said they had left the engine running and popped inside the house until the ice clears - a perfect target for thieves.

Aaron Edwards, a spokesperson for Halfords Autocentres, said: "A lot of the UK has had a mild and wet winter so far but with cold weather on the way, we strongly advise motorists to take precautions to keep themselves and their passengers safe.

"It's imperative people ensure their windscreen is fully cleared before setting off, not only is it a legal requirement to be able to have a clear view of the road, it is vital for the safety of all road users."

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