With thousands of us hitting the road before Christmas – and flood warnings being issued across the country – motoring experts have given advice on driving safely.
Motoring giant Leasecar.uk issued the guidance as the Met Office forecast treacherous weather conditions when many drivers will be taking off for Christmas.
Their team have warned motorists to beware of dangers such as aquaplaning (skating on water without a grip on the road) and being buffeted by sudden strong gusts of wind.
Advance preparation is crucial, with drivers urged to keep their phones charged, fuel tanks full and to check their windscreen wipers and tyre treads.
They should also have all the details they need to call out breakdown services if necessary.
Tim Alcock of Leasecar.uk said: “A lot of people spend Christmas in one place and New Year in another, so we can expect a lot of cars on the roads in the days between – which is just when a lot of wind and rain is forecast.
“These conditions can be worrying but there are lots of things driver can do to help prevent anything from happening – and very definite driving techniques for situations such as aquaplaning.
“We’ve put this guidance together so that people can be prepared and stay safe as they make their way around the country for the festive season.”
How to drive in wind and rain:
- Ask if the journey is necessary
It sounds obvious, but if conditions are hazardous, consider whether the journey really is necessary. Can it wait?
2. Be prepared for breaking down
Make sure your breakdown recovery number is stored on your phone, along with any details you may need such as your policy or membership number. Keep your phone charged and have a charger in the car.
3. Slow down
Stopping distances can double in wet weather, and wind and rain can affect braking and handling.
Slow down and increase the distance between you and the car in front. Not going too fast will help you to keep more control. Remember that your stopping distance includes ‘thinking time’ as well as stopping time.
4. Maintain the car
Check your windscreen wipers, tyre tread and tyre pressure before you set off. Keep your fuel, oil and screen-wash levels up.
5. Follow the tracks
In heavy rain, vehicles in front can leave ‘tracks’ in the ground water. Try to stay in these tracks to prevent aquaplaning.
6. Be ready to aquaplane
If your steering goes light and it feels like you’ve dropped gears, you are likely to be aquaplaning (driving on water with little or no grip on the road). The engine may sound louder too. Stay calm and don’t steer or brake hard.
Come off the accelerator gently until you feel a grip again and keep the wheel in the direction of travel. Once you feel you have control of the car again, you can brake gently. If for some reason you must steer, do it gently.
If you’re driving in wet weather, turn off cruise control to help prevent aquaplaning.
7. Use your lights properly
Dipped headlights will make you visible without dazzling other drivers. Do not use fog lights unless it is very misty with very low visibility.
8. Look ahead
If you want to know if you’re likely to aquaplane or be buffeted by wind, watch the vehicles in front of you to see what’s happening to them,
9. Overtake with care
If you are overtaking in windy conditions, beware of sudden gusts as you clear the vehicle, especially if it is large.
You should also look out for sudden gusts when passing buildings, trees and so on. The wind may blow vehicles off course – allow extra space and be very careful when passing cyclists.
10. Hold the wheel firmly
You’ll need as much control as possible if you get blown by wind or start skating on water. Keep both hands on the wheel.
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