Adapting your driving for winter conditions!

It has come to that time of year again where the weather is starting to become more miserable. The temperatures are dropping, the rain is getting heavier, it is getting darker earlier and the winds are getting stronger.

The road conditions can be really challenging, especially in the winter. It becomes more difficult for drivers as there is a lot to consider when planning a journey during bad weather.

The met office has listed a number of tips that they recommend when driving in these conditions.

Choices and planning ahead

• Even moderate rain can reduce your ability to see and be seen. A good rule of thumb is ‘if it’s time for your wipers, it’s time to slow down’.
• If heavy downpours are expected, avoid starting your journey until it clears.
• If you can, choose main roads, where you are less likely to be exposed to fallen branches and debris and flooding.
• Use dipped headlights if visibility is seriously reduced.
• Gusts of wind can unsettle vehicles – grip your steering wheel firmly with both hands. This is particularly important when planning to overtake.
• Keep an eye out for gaps between trees, buildings or bridges over a river or railway – these are some of the places you are more likely to be exposed to side winds. Ensure that you maintain enough room either side of your vehicle so you can account for it being blown sideways.
• Roads will be more slippery than usual in wet weather – be sure to give yourself more time to react when approaching a hazard. Increase your following gap to at least four seconds from the moving traffic in front.
• Keep your eyes peeled on the road at all times as spray from other vehicles can suddenly reduce your visibility. Remember it affects others too, so anticipate their actions and be prepared.

What to do when the road is flooded

• On flooded roads, think before driving through deep water; don’t stop in standing water, and drive through the highest section of the road slowly. If there is any doubt don’t enter it.
• Once you have managed to drive through check your brakes and dry them out as quickly as possible – a light touch of the brakes whilst still moving should do the trick.
• RAC offers more in-depth advice about driving through water and floods.

Keep an eye out for cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians

• Remember to give vulnerable road users including cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians more room than usual. They are more likely to be blown around by side winds – always keep a safe distance.

To read more- https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/warnings-and-advice/seasonal-advice/travel/travelling-in-storms-rain-and-heavy-wind

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