With Storm Babet sweeping across the UK, many of us are adjusting to driving in heavy rain. For new drivers, this can be an intimidating situation, and even experienced drivers may find it challenging to navigate through rain showers and thunderstorms.
The combination of slippery roads, reduced visibility, and potential hazards requires a unique approach for a safe journey. This article offers comprehensive guidance on effectively navigating wet roads, prioritising the safety of both yourself and those around you.
Assessing the Necessity of Travel
Prior to fastening your seatbelt and starting the engine, it's crucial to determine if the journey is truly essential. When a significant downpour is predicted, contemplate delaying your travel until the weather improves. If the trip is unavoidable, be sure to plan your route in advance, acquaint yourself with the weather forecast, and be prepared for potential delays.
Ensuring Your Vehicle is Ready for Wet Conditions
The way your vehicle performs and responds can greatly impact your driving in rainy conditions. Hence, it's essential to confirm that your vehicle is in top condition before hitting the road. Inspect the state of your windscreen wipers, tire tread depth, headlights, and make sure your fuel tank is adequately filled. The effectiveness of these components becomes even more crucial during wet weather, directly affecting your safety and control while driving.
Adapting Speed for Wet Conditions
The reduced grip on wet roads necessitates a slower driving speed. It is recommended to drive at least one-third slower than the official speed limit on any road during rainy weather. This adjustment provides additional time to react to sudden changes and ensures a safer stopping distance.
Use Your Headlights and Windshield Wipers
Visibility is paramount when driving in the rain. Utilise your vehicle's headlights on dipped beam to enhance visibility and alert other drivers to your presence. Simultaneously, make sure that your windshield wipers are in proper working order. Adjust their speed based on the rain intensity to keep clear visibility.
Maintain a Safe Following Distance
Ensuring a safe distance from the vehicle ahead is crucial in wet weather. It is advised to sustain a gap of at least four seconds, providing ample time for a secure stop.
Consider Others on the Road
When driving in the rain, it's crucial to be mindful of fellow road users, particularly vulnerable ones such as cyclists, motorcyclists, and pedestrians. Provide them with more space than usual, recognising that they may be more affected by side winds and spray from your vehicle.
Brake Gently
Abrupt braking on wet roads can result in skidding and a loss of control. So, it's recommended to anticipate junctions and stopping points in advance, gently easing off the accelerator and applying brakes smoothly.
Steering Clear of Standing Water
A significant challenge when driving in the rain is navigating standing water or puddles. Passing through these can result in your vehicle hydroplaning, leading to a substantial loss of control. So, it's advisable to avoid driving through standing water whenever you can.
Understanding and Reacting to Aquaplaning
Aquaplaning is a frequent occurrence when driving in intense rain, happening when your tyres lose contact with the road due to water accumulation. Identifying signs like a sudden rise in engine noise or a 'light' sensation in the steering allows you to take corrective measures. If your vehicle begins to aquaplane, gently release the accelerator and keep the steering wheel straight. Refrain from harsh braking until you've regained control.
What to do When Visibility is Reduced
In the midst of heavy rainfall, visibility can be significantly compromised. If the rain is so intense that it hampers your clear view of the road ahead, it's advisable to pull over in a safe location and patiently wait for the weather to improve.
Navigating Through Deeper Water
For light flooding or fords, it's crucial to exercise additional precautions. Assess the water depth before moving forward and stay on the highest section of the road. Maintain a slow, continuous drive without stopping, and after crossing, test and dry your brakes.
Managing Breakdowns in Heavy Rainfall
Facing a car breakdown in heavy rainfall can be challenging. If you experience a breakdown, ensure to keep your bonnet closed to prevent additional damage. If your engine cuts out after driving through deep water, refrain from attempting to restart the car.
Managing Foggy Windows
Increased humidity from rain can result in foggy windows. To prevent this issue, activate your air conditioning or utilise the defrost vent to ensure clear visibility.