Driving Safely in Bad Weather Conditions
CitiPark would like to ask all of our customers to take extra care when driving over the next few weeks.
With flooding and gales creating very dangerous driving conditions across the UK, we ask drivers to be extra vigilant and not to drive in particularly bad weather conditions.
Should our customers have to take to their cars in poor conditions we’ve put together a guide for driving in difficult weather.
Be prepared
Drivers must be ready for bad weather conditions by preparing key items. Ensure your have suitable, warm clothing. It is also worth having a packing list if you know you are going out in bad weather. This should include:
- A flashlight
- A blanket
- Food and water plus a hot drink
- A windshield scraper and fluid
- A full fuel tank
- A charged mobile phone
- Fully working car lights
Check local forecasts and news to see the state of the roads and what local authorities are recommending. You may need to plan a change of route if certain roads are closed.
Be vigilant
In heavy winds and rain you must remain incredibly vigilant of your surroundings and other traffic. Particularly be cautious of HGVs such as lorries. Give a wider berth when passing larger vehicles as winds can often move these types of vehicle.
In very windy weather your vehicle may be affected by turbulence which can be created by larger vehicles. Motorcyclists are particularly affected and should keep well back when overtaking.
Slow down
In wet weather stopping distance will be at least double that required for stopping on dry roads. Allow for longer braking distances and be cautious of surface water. Do not brake in standing water as this can cause loss of control.
If the steering becomes unresponsive it probably means that water is preventing the types from gripping the road. Ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually.
Stay in your vehicle
If stranded or stuck stay in your vehicle. You should have supplies and a mobile phone. If you leave your vehicle you automatically put yourself at risk of surrounding traffic and possible objects blowing about in the wind.
Further information on sataying safe on the roads can be found on the Highways Agency Website.