Motorists have been warned to adapt their driving for winter following dozens of crashes on Sussex roads.

Four people were killed and 23 seriously injured on the county’s roads in the first ten days of December.

Sussex Police said they recorded 63 collisions last weekend and said many were caused by drivers not adapting to winter’s first really cold period.

The force is increasing the number of road policing officers during high-risk times to reduce the four major causes of road death – speeding, drink driving, use of mobile phones and not wearing seatbelts.

Police report drink and drug-driving checks in the county have already shown a disappointingly high level of people over the limit.

Chief Inspector Mark Trimmer, of the road policing unit, said: “Our aim is to try to prevent any further loss of life or serious injury, but we need all road users to play their part.

“One of the most difficult roles for any police officer is to tell a family that a loved one has been killed or seriously injured in a collision.”

On December 7, Doug Wildman, 27, died when his van crashed in icy conditions near Farthings Hill roundabout on the A281, between Horsham and Broadbridge Heath.

On December 3, a 41-yearold man from Heathfield died after his Volkswagen Polo collided with a Renault Scenic on the B2192 at the Broyle, Ringmer, near Lewes.

Motorists are advised to check tyres and lights meet legal requirements and allow extra time for their journey in the cold weather.

Cyclists should wear reflective clothing and use lights while pedestrians should be aware that drivers may take longer to stop due to road conditions.

Chief Insp Trimmer said: “My staff will be out 24 hours a day carrying out enforcement, targeting collision and route hotspots as well as those individuals who have been reported to us as being a real risk to other road users.”

Police run a website, operationcrackdown.org, for people to report anti-social driving.

To report drink-driving call Sussex Police on 0845 60 70 999 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.