Traffic chaos on the M11 had motorists stuck there for up to 20 hours

Dominic Sacco lists the three most disastrous cases, from 20 hours on the M11 to a 74-car icy pile up.

1. M11 mayhem

In 2003, just two inches of snow caused traffic chaos on the M11 between London and Cambridge, and some motorists reported being stuck there for up to 20 hours.

The AA received 16,000 breakdown calls from 9am to 3pm on Friday 31st January – three times the average daily call levels.

Moral: Listen out for the Highways Agency warning motorists not to travel unless necessary.

2. Crazy 74-car fog pile up in New York

The Palisades Interstate Parkway was home to one of the biggest collisions in 1995.

Heavy fog caused 74 drivers to lose sight and crash into one another, creating carnage which extended over three miles before clearing.

Once the first car was hit a chain reaction occurred – but luckily no-one was injured.

Moral: Slow down, switch fog lights on and listen for approaching traffic.

3. More than 100 inches of snow hit Canadian roads

Thick snow bombarded Newfoundland in early 2001, causing snowdrifts across roads and motorists unable to move their cars from their drives.

Around 118 inches of snow fell, making winter driving a nightmare – even for Canadians, who regularly experience heavy snow. Snowploughs couldn’t clear the roads properly, leaving piles of snow on the pavements which towered over most people.

Moral: Don’t drive unless it’s safe to do so.

How to avoid a nightmare scenario

Read our essential winter driving car advice for all the best tips and guidance on how to drive through wet and freezing weather this winter.

Other common breakdowns

Problem: Car battery goes flat or fails
Prevention: This is the current number one cause of breakdowns in the UK, so get your battery checked every month (or once a week in the winter) - and remember to turn off your lights when parked. Also, check the fluid isn’t low and change the battery every three to four years.

Problem: Fuel tank is nearly empty
Prevention: Always fill up adequately before long journeys and try not to let the fuel gauge fall below the quarter mark

Problem: Engine failure
Prevention: Regularly inspect under the bonnet for any obvious signs of a problem, otherwise have the engine checked out at a garage if you’re not sure

Remember – it’s a good idea to get any other minor problems fixed as soon as possible without waiting for a regular service or MOT test.

Some breakdown companies like the AA now have a new location service, where they can track you from the mobile you’re calling from.