Driving in wet weather

DRIVING IN WET WEATHER

Flooding Advice and Tips

·       Firstly, consider if your journey is really necessary - only travel where there is no other option

·        If you have to travel, plan your route to avoid known affected areas (use RAC route planner/listen to local radio stations for traffic updates)

·       Let relatives and friends know your intended route and expected time of arrival and, where possible, travel with others

·       Carry extra warm, waterproof clothing and suitable footwear should you have to abandon your vehicle and take food and drink with you in case you become stranded

·       Carry a mobile phone with a fully charged battery and car adaptor if available (together with contact numbers if not already stored on the phone)

·       Finally, ensure that the fuel tank is full - being stuck in traffic and use of lights, heater etc all use a lot more fuel so you could run out.   

The following tips should always be followed for driving in flooded conditions:

• Driving fast through deep water can cause serious and expensive damage.  If your engine cuts out after driving through deep water, do not attempt to restart as engine damage may occur – instead call for assistance and have the vehicle professionally examined

• Driving too fast through standing water could lead to tyres losing contact with the road.  If your steering suddenly feels light you could be aquaplaning.  To regain grip, ease off the accelerator, do not brake and allow your speed to reduce until you gain full control of the steering again.

• Do not attempt to drive through water if you are unsure of the depth – the edge of the kerb is a good indicator

• If you do go through, drive on the highest section of the road

• Drive steadily and slowly so as not to create a bow wave in front of the vehicle and allow oncoming traffic to pass first

• Driving at speed may be dangerous to other vehicles or pedestrians and could cause loss of control

• Never tailgate other vehicles by using their lights as a marker

• Never attempt to drive through fast flowing water – you could easily get swept away

• Test your brakes after leaving flood water

Heavy Rain

Heavy rain can bring many problems for motorists; roads may be closed and the routes that are still open are at risk of being waterlogged or covered in debris. In such severe weather motorists should always remember to drive within their capabilities and those of their vehicle.

·      Plan your journey to avoid flooded areas and make sure you allow plenty of time

·       Use dipped headlights, this allows others to see you

·       Don’t use rear fog lights as they can mask your brake lights and dazzle the traffic following you

·      Reduce your speed, leave more space between you and the vehicle in front

·       Remember in wet conditions your braking distance will increase

·       Remember fast moving vehicles create spray which can dramatically reduce visibility - select the correct wiper speed to ensure your windscreen is kept clear for maximum vision

·      Listen out for local news bulletins to keep up to date with road closures and forecasts

·       In the event that you break down in torrential rain, keep the bonnet closed whilst waiting for help to arrive, to avoid the electrical system getting soaked

·       Finally, if conditions get too hard to cope with and you get the chance to pull over – do so, and if it is safe and legal, phone a family member or friend to let them know that you have stopped for a while