Preparing for Winter Driving - Driving in Heavy Rain
Inspector Gary Jones of Dyfed Powys Police shares his Winter Driving tips - We have all experienced heavy rainfall over the last few weeks, which is expected to continue for the rest of this week. Please see following advice:
Driving in Heavy Rain can be hazardous.
Before setting off:
• Consider whether your journey is essential. If not, can it be delayed until after the rain has subsided?
• Plan your journey in advance, taking care to avoid areas which are prone to flooding, and factoring in extra time to allow for slower speeds and potential congestion
• Let relatives and friends know your intended route and expected time of arrival and where possible, travel with others
• Check that your windscreen wiper blades are fully functional. If both front and back blades are not up to scratch, get them replaced
• Make sure you fill up. Using your lights and heaters and being caught in traffic use more fuel than driving in normal conditions
• Carry a mobile phone in case you encounter any difficulties during your journey
On the road:
• Use dipped headlights so that other drivers can see you more easily
• Don’t use rear fog lights. They can mask your brake lights and dazzle drivers behind you
• Reduce your speed and leave more space between you and the vehicle in front to account for greater stopping distances – you will need TWICE your normal braking distance
• Look out for large or fast-moving vehicles creating spray which reduces visibility
• Listen out for local news bulletins to keep up-to-date with road closures, flooding and forecasts
• If you break down in torrential rain keep the bonnet closed while waiting for help to arrive, to avoid the electrical system getting soaked
• 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
• Driving fast through deep water can cause serious and expensive damage
• Be considerate to other road users and try not to spray pedestrians and cyclists as you drive through water