Many drivers are far too chilled out to be prepared for wintry conditions on the roads, according to a survey.

Few make the proper allowances for driving in bad weather, the poll by car insurance company Churchill found.

Of those who drive regularly during the winter months, 24% do not take corners at a slower speed and 25% do not increase the distance from the vehicle in front, the survey found.

It also said 26% do not allow more time to get to their destination by driving more slowly, while 27% admitted to skidding in icy weather last winter.

The poll also found that 44% drive with their windscreens misted or iced over.

Motorists used any number of things to try to clear their cars of ice and snow last winter, including credit cards, cigarette packets and CD cases.

As many as 18% used their hands to get windscreens and windows clear, while 15% used boiling kettles.

Churchill Car Insurance head Tony Chilcott said: "It is really important that, during winter, drivers do not assume that they can drive at the same speeds and in the same style that they would in fair and dry conditions.

"Remember that you may not always be able to see ice patches, so at the very least it's a good idea to reduce your speed, particularly when driving around corners."

A total of 2,013 UK adults, including 1,333 who drive regularly, were surveyed.