DRIVERS are being asked to take extra caution this winter with those not experienced in alpine driving urged to take note of RoadSafe North East’s ‘Top 10 Tips’ released last week.

Sergeant Michael Connors of Wangaratta Highway Patrol said winter driving can be particularly challenging, even before drivers hit alpine roads.

“You cannot see black ice because generally it forms at nighttime, in the early mornings or on sections of the roads that haven’t been exposed to sunlight,” Sgt Connors said.

“If you hit black ice, you will have little or no control over your vehicle.”

Sgt Connors said drivers, even those who are experienced alpine drivers, should avoid accelerating, braking hard or turning the steering wheel quickly when approaching black ice.

“If you try to struggle against the ice by braking hard or steering in the opposite direction, you increase the risk of spinning out,” he said.

“We are asking drivers to please slow down in areas known for black ice.”

Black ice is commonly found near Ovens, Eurobin and Harrietville on Great Alpine Road and this year community road safety organisation RoadSafe North East has positioned a Variable Messaging Sign (VMS) in Myrtleford to target drivers heading towards those spots.

Chief executive officer John Weinert said with regional Victorians encouraged to head to the snow this season, basic driving rules must be followed.

“We are working in partnership with Victoria Police to educate drivers about the need for careful, cautious driving in alpine areas and how they can minimize the risk with concentration and patience,” he said.

“It’s not about instilling fear in drivers, especially first-time visitors to the snow but equipping them with the skills and confidence to get there safely and stress-free, if road conditions do deteriorate.”

Positioned just before the Pheonix Tree on Great Alpine Road in Myrtleford, the rolling messages read: ‘Ice & Snow’, ‘Please drive slow’ and ‘Be Snowsafe. Carry chains. Slow down’.

“Whether it’s a day trip or to stay and play, we are appealing to drivers to follow the basic rules,” Mr Weinert said.