Although spring is fast approaching and winter is on the way out, there will still be times when the weather seems to be against us drivers. Unseasonal snow showers, heavy frosts and icy patches are still just one arctic blast away. But it’s not just freezing conditions that we have to face and adapt to when the need arises. Heavy rain, fog and strong winds are all factors to take into consideration when driving.
So here are a few tips to help you get through safely when the forces of nature conspire against you.
Snow and ice:
- Ensure that your tyres have at least the legal tread depth of 1.6mm and preferably more than 3mm (the highways agency recommendation for wintery conditions).
- Reduce your speed considerably – patches of ice can be hard to see and you may not be aware that you are on one until it’s too late if you are travelling too fast.
- Make your driving smooth and avoid heavy braking, acceleration and jerky gear changes.
- Drive in the highest gear possible to reduce power to the wheels.
- De mist and de-ice windows thoroughly prior to starting your journey.
- Stop frequently to clean windows, lights and number plates.
Heavy rain:
- Increase the distance between you and other vehicles by dropping back as it can take twice as long to stop
- Ensure that your windscreen wipers are effective and in good working order.
- Ensure windows remain clear of mist.
- Beware of spray on roads where vehicles are travelling at higher speeds such as motorways and dual carriageways
Strong winds:
- Look out for the wind trying to push your vehicle off course
- Give other road users more clearance as they may be blown into your path. In particular look out for high sided vehicles (trucks, caravans and buses etc), cyclists and motorcyclists.
- Look out for flying debris such as dustbins that can be blown into the road.
Fog:
- Use dipped headlights
- If visibility is seriously reduced (less than 100m) use front and rear fog lights (if fitted to your vehicle). Remember to turn these off when visibility improves, otherwise you could be breaking the law, and dazzling other road users.
Most importantly in extreme examples of all of the above situations, limit your driving to journeys that are absolutely necessary. Plan your journeys carefully and listen to traffic reports in the media – these can highlight areas to avoid such as roads badly affected by snow or flooding.
