During periods of wet weather, there will be more call outs for roadside assistance due to more accidents, as well as engine and electrical issues caused by the damp.
In this blog, we’ll give you a few tips to help reduce your chances of a breakdown or crash in wet weather.
Is the journey essential?
In bad weather, always consider whether the journey is essential. Can it be delayed until the rain has stopped?
If the journey cannot be avoided, then plan your journey in advance. Avoid areas and roads that are prone to flooding. Also factor in extra travel time as other road users may be driving slower, causing congestion.
Before you set off:
- Check that your wipers are fully functional, and that your wiper blades don’t need replacing. Wipers blades may squeak or cause friction when they are due to be replaced, and may not clear the window screen fully.
- Ensure you have sufficient fuel. Congested roads, and increased use of vehicle electronics will reduce your fuel economy.
- Look out for local news and keep up to date with road closures.
- Make sure your mobile phone is fully charged, and you have a car charger just in case you need to call for assistance.
- Check that your tyres have the recommended legal tyre tread depth, as you will have less grip on wet roads.
How to drive in heavy rain
- Slow Down: Reduce your speed and increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front, as stopping distances are increased in wet weather.
- Use Dipped Headlights so other drivers can see you better.
- Don’t use rear fog lights: They can mask your brake lights.
- Look out for fast moving, or large vehicles: They will create spray that reduces your visibility.
- Keep your demister on to keep your window screen clear.
- Keep the bonnet closed if you break down in rain, otherwise the vehicle electrics could develop a fault.
- Don’t drive too fast through water: Deep puddles can cause the car to aquaplane, meaning the wheels lose contact with the road. To regain grip, ease of the accelerator, don’t brake and let your speed to reduce until you regain grip.