The UK averages over 156 days of rain every year, which is far from perfect. This is why it’s important for all drivers in Britain to know how to drive safely in adverse conditions. If you must take a trip, there are a number of steps you should take to reduce your chances of a crash or breakdown. This blog will be a guide for you to learn how not to drive like a donkey at the first sight of a raindrop.
Preparing to Go
The first thing to think about when bad weather appears, is whether you really need to make the trip out, can it be delayed until after the rain has subsided? Just work late and do the economy a favour! If you must make the journey, be on alert for any large puddles in areas that are prone to flooding and allow extra time for travelling to allow for congestion and slower speeds. It’s also a great idea to let a friend or family member know that you’re off out in the bad weather.
The following are a number of points you should tick off before venturing out in the rain:
- Check on your windscreen wipers – ensure they are both working and replace them if blunt or broken.
- Make sure you have enough fuel or make the petrol station your first port of call. In the case of increased traffic or a diversion, you’ll use up more fuel.
- Most people these days always carry their mobile phones, you should prompt older relatives to carry a mobile phone in the case of an accident or breakdown.
- Check your tyres before moving off, ensure they are not too worn down as this can increase the stopping distance of your car.
En Route
Firstly, slow your driving down! Reduce your speed and increase the distance between you and the car in front. The Highway Code states that stopping distances at least double in rainy weather as your tyres have less grip on the road. Driving through puddles incorrectly can cause serious damage to your car or worse, cause you to aquaplane and lose control.
The following are a number of points you should follow when out driving in the rain:
- Dip your headlight so other drivers can see you easily.
- Never use rear fog light in the rain, they can cover your brake lights and startle drivers behind you.
- Look out for large vehicles creating spray from the road, pass them with caution as the spray reduces visibility.
- Always remember to keep your air conditioning on, this stops your windows misting up and decreasing visibility.
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By driving more cautiously and paying greater attention to the road in wet weather, you will be kept safe. Becoming distracted and taking your attention away from the road will only increase your risk of an accident, whether that be through hitting a puddle too fast or not thinking about your visibility before setting off. Take all of these points into consideration the next time you need to drive in the rain to keep you from skidding and sliding all over the road.
