It is important at all times to ensure that you have clear visibility when driving. Heavy rains affect how much you can see, how well your car reacts and driving in areas prone to flooding hold adds a whole new list of concerns.
When driving in the rain ensure that you are prepared, that you take care and are safe at all times.
Be Prepared
- Don’t drive in poor weather conditions unless your journey is essential, delay or cancel your journey until it is safe to reschedule.
- When setting off in heavy rain plan your route to avoid areas which are known for flooding and ensure that you check reports in advance to make you aware of any issues and other places to avoid.
- Before setting off check your tyre pressure, that your wiper blades are fully functional and that the car is well maintained.
- Pack your “in case” box. This should include blankets, snakcs and drinks, a first aid kit, shoes or boots for walking to safety and anything else relevant which would be helpful in the event of breaking down in the rain or being cut off due to flooding.
When Driving on the Road
- Dip your headlights making it easier for other drivers to see you.
- Slow down and leave additional space between yourself and the car in front in case of a sudden stop.
- Be aware of larger and fast vehicles which tend to create a lot of spray further decreasing visibility.
- Avoid using your rear fog lights as these can make it harder for drivers behind you to see your brake lights clearly.
- Check forecasts and travel news before setting off, especially in heavy rain to avoid congested or flooded areas.
- Avoid spraying pedstrains, cyclists and other drivers with water. This is a safety requirement as well as a polite one.
- Don’t drive fast in rain. Not only may it take longer for your car to slow down driving through water at speed may cause you to lose control of your car.
Driving in a Flooded Area
If you find yourself driving in a flooded area:
- Don’t drive through water unless you are certain of it’s depth.
- if you must drive through water aim for the highest point of the ground / shallow water where possible.
- Drive slowly to avoid losing control, damaging the underneath or the car and avoid causing danger to others.
- Do not under any circumstances try and drive through fast moving water. As large and as heavy as they are car may easily be swept off the road causing severe danger to drivers and passengers.
- Maintain a safe distance between yourself and vehicles ahead in the even of a sudden or prolonged brake.
- Do not try and restart you engine if it cuts out while you are in water as this may damage the engine, call the experts to check your vehicle first.
The UK gets more than its fair share of rainfall throughout the year and so it is important that cars are ready for heavy rain and potential flooding at all times and that drivers are aware of need for caution.
