Drivers in Birmingham are being warned their abandoned vehicles could be seized by authorities as a major snowstorm batters the city, causing widespread disruption and stranding cars.
Vehicles Stranded as Amber Alert Issued
The West Midlands, including Birmingham, is under an Met Office amber weather warning on Friday, January 9, 2026. Heavy snowfall from Storm Goretti has led to treacherous conditions, with numerous cars becoming stuck or abandoned across the city.
Despite urgent warnings advising against travel, many motorists took to the roads, resulting in vehicles being left stranded. Authorities have highlighted the risk this poses to other road users and emergency services.
Risk of Towing and Insurance Implications
Alicia Hempsted, a car insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, issued a stark warning to drivers. "While it's understandable some may have no choice but to leave their car on the road in extreme conditions, it's important to know the consequences," she stated.
"If the vehicle causes an obstruction or a hazard, it could be towed away by local authorities, and that comes at a cost to the driver."
Hempsted also advised drivers to check their insurance policies, noting that while comprehensive cover typically remains valid in snow, policyholders should "always double check whether your policy covers damage caused by severe conditions such as snow, frost or ice."
Expert Advice for Navigating the Storm
Breakdown and motoring organisations have united in urging extreme caution. Alice Simpson, RAC breakdown spokesperson, emphasised preparedness: "Those who have to drive need to be confident on potentially slippery surfaces, have ensured their vehicles are up to the task, and are carrying an emergency breakdown kit."
Shaun Jones, an AA expert patrol, detailed essential precautions for drivers considering a journey:
- Ensure your vehicle is winter-ready: clear all windows and mirrors, check tyres and batteries.
- Carry essentials: warm clothing, water, a torch, and a phone charger.
- Keep fuel or EV charge topped up in case of delays or diversions.
- Stick to main, gritted routes as side roads may be untreated.
- Be ready to postpone travel if conditions worsen.
Met Office Chief Forecaster Neil Armstrong called it a "complex spell of severe weather," advising people in warning areas to keep up to date with forecasts and local authority messages.
The overarching message from all experts is clear: with Storm Goretti bringing heavy snow, strong winds, and rapidly changing conditions, safety must be the absolute priority. Drivers are strongly advised to reconsider any non-essential travel in the affected regions.
