Police say there were 17 smashes in the last two days. And seven could be linked to the skid pan conditions.

On Monday afternoon a car and two taxis piled into each other outside the Lantana entrance on Somerset Road.

One of the vehicles skidded, Police spokesman P.c. Gary Venning said yesterday.

And at about 9 a.m. on Sunday a pink Suzuki Vitara jeep lost control on Harbour Road, near Red Hole.

It broke through a wooden fence and plunged about 6 feet into Hamilton Harbour.

Any witnesses should contact P.c. Calon Hollis.

Also on Sunday morning, a vehicle skidded and collided with a car on Dundonald Street, said P.c. Venning.

In addition, a livery cycle lost control going down Langton Hill, near the junction with Mount Hill.

It then slid across the centre line, colliding with a car coming in the opposite direction.

P.c. Venning said: "While it is convenient to blame loss of control on road conditions, it is ultimately the drivers' responsibility to take account and allow for such adverse conditions.'' Police have offered tips to drivers. These include: Ensuring there is adequate tread on tyres; Ensuring tyre air pressures are correct; Leave more room between yourself and the vehicle in front; Brake gently over a long distance; Only brake firmly when the vehicle is going in a straight line; and Watch out for loose sand and gravel, and oil and leaves.