DRIVERS have been warned about a little-known dashboard symbol that could show that they are in immediate danger.
While motorists are familiar with common warning lights, such as those encouraging them to check their oil or informing them of low fuel, this far rarer signal is one to look out for urgently.
The road condition indicator relies on the car's sensors to feed the driver information about the ambient temperature around the vehicle.
Most modern cars come equipped with some form of temperature gauge that shows the mercury level outside of the closely climate-controlled cabin.
However, if you see a snowflake symbol flicker alight on your dashboard, you should make sure to take note immediately.
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This warning light comes on when the temperature drops low enough that the road is likely to be icy.
It is designed to alert drivers of a potential change in conditions that could make it harder to control their car.
Sometimes it will even be accompanied by a message on the car's display screen or even an audible warning.
Handling, traction and stopping distances are all negatively impacted by icy roads, meaning it's vital to take extra care when travelling.
Try and avoid driving on icy roads when possible and, where it is unavoidable, make sure to reduce your speed to a safe level.
Icy conditions are also often accompanied by poor visibility, which can further affect how you should drive.
The warning will usually be activated when the outside temperature drops below about 4C as that is when exposed roads like bridges tend to begin to freeze over.
It comes after a motoring expert revealed how having an argument with your family could see you slapped with a £1,000 fine.
Meanwhile, speaking of road safety, it emerged that Brits are 20 times more likely to be breathalysed in a top holiday hotspot than in the UK.
