As Britain is seized by one of the wettest autumns on record, many people are faced with severe or localised flooding. It’s tempting to just risk it and dash through a flood as quickly as possible, or take that non-essential trip in driving rain. If there are weather warnings, or you are aware of flooding, use caution; taking that risk could cause damage to your vehicle, or worse.
Driving in heavy rain
Heavy rain can reduce visibility and transform the road conditions. The risk factors aren’t just linked to the fact that you have to cope with the rain pelting your windscreen, but with surface water on the road which can splash up to further reduce your visibility, as well as increase the risk of aquaplaning. If a sudden downpour catches you by surprise, here’s what you need to do:
- Slow down. Don’t slam your foot on the brake, but ease off the accelerator and slow down to a pace that you are comfortable with for the conditions.
- Switch on your headlights – no matter what time of day, the Highway Code specifies that you must use your headlights if visibility is less than 100 metres. You can use your fog lights if it helps but remember to switch them off when visibility returns.
- Increase your stopping distance. Wet roads, wet tyres, reduced visibility and the additional strain on your senses and concentration will mean that it will take you longer to stop in an emergency. Increase your stopping distance. Normal conditions call for a two second stopping distance, but you are advised to err on the side of caution and leave three seconds between you and the car in front. In wet conditions, leave a four to six second stopping distance.
- If your steering feels light, it could be because you are aquaplaning. Ease off the accelerator and slow down even more until you feel you have complete control.
- Remember that wet brakes have less friction than dry ones, so drive with extra caution and stay alert to potential hazards. If you have driven through a deep puddle (or two, or three!), test your brakes afterwards.
- If you do break down, don’t wait with the bonnet of your car open; wet engines are harder to fix than dry ones!
In winter conditions, it is even more important that your tyres are in condition and that your brakes work well. If you are in any doubt about the age or wear of your tyres or brakes, pop into your local garage; they will be able to check both for you and advise you whether you need any work done to ensure your safety on the roads.
Next week, we will discuss what you need to know about driving through floods. For more information and for help finding local garages that you can trust, follow Trust A Garage on Twitter or Facebook.