Many drivers were likely to find that they were unprepared for the difficult driving conditions caused by the recent cold snap. A host of advice has been released to help keep you safe behind the wheel and reduce the chances of you making a claim on your car insurance. Figures from Sainsbury's Bank reveal that the number of car insurance claims recently rocketed by a staggering 45 per cent as compared with the same time last year.

The bank explained that claims shot up as the majority of drivers are inexperienced when it comes to driving in snow and they are more likely to suffer mishaps. This can prove costly in terms of car insurance as it could lead to you losing your no claims bonus and drive up the cost of your premiums.

Depending on your level of coverage, you may have to cover the cost of damage resulting from a collision, which can take a considerable sum from your savings. Concerned motorists can opt to have coverage upped to a Fully Comprehensive policy or you can pay a small amount to protect your no claims bonus, which generally allows you to make a limited number of claims each year.

However, a new resource launched by the Institute of Advanced Motorists has been put together to help motorists drive more safely. The institute reminds motorists to drive slowly and smoothly when navigating through fresh snow. This can help you to keep the vehicle under better and control and learn how the car moves on snowfall.

Drivers are encouraged to maintain a safe distance from other road users while driving in order to have room to get the vehicle under control should it begin veering off-course. When snow has disappeared you should continue to drive very carefully in case ice is covering the road surface. Long gaps ought to be kept between you and other cars when driving in heavy rain and the institute reminds drivers to be on the lookout for standing water, which can cause skidding.

For floods you lessen the chances of losing control of your car if you drive in the centre of the road, or the driest part, when safe to do so. Proceed slowly through flooding areas and be careful that you avoid water entering the exhaust; this can be achieved by keeping the vehicle in a low gear and the revs high while using the clutch to control the car's speed.

In fog, the institute warns motorists not to put headlights on full-beam and be aware that, if you are in a line of traffic, the car in front will be clearing the fog which can give a false impression of the weather conditions. During strong winds watch out as you pass high-sided vehicles and motorcyclists who are particularly vulnerable to adverse weather conditions.