Driving in Adverse Conditions

Adverse weather and road conditions significantly increase driving risks. This guide covers essential techniques for maintaining safety when facing challenging driving situations in the UK.

Important Safety Note

If conditions become too severe, consider postponing your journey. No trip is worth risking your safety or the safety of others.

Weather-Specific Guidance

Wet Conditions

  • Double your normal following distance
  • Watch for standing water and potential aquaplaning
  • Brake earlier and more gently
  • Use dipped headlights in heavy rain
  • Check windscreen wipers are in good condition

Fog

  • Use fog lights when visibility drops below 100m
  • Keep a constant, reduced speed
  • Follow road markings if you can't see ahead
  • Never use full beam as it reflects back
  • Open windows at junctions to hear other traffic

Ice & Snow

  • Accelerate and brake very gently
  • Use highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin
  • Steer smoothly - avoid sudden movements
  • Beware of black ice, especially in shadows
  • Carry essential winter equipment

Techniques for Adverse Conditions

Condition Technique Key Points
Strong Winds Firm steering control Be extra cautious when passing high-sided vehicles or leaving sheltered areas
Flooded Roads Low gear, steady speed Test brakes immediately after passing through deep water
Low Sun Use sun visor Keep windscreen clean inside and out, allow extra stopping distance
Night Driving Proper headlight use Dip lights for oncoming traffic, watch for pedestrians/animals

Vehicle Preparation

Essential Checks Before Driving

  1. Tyres: Check tread depth (minimum 1.6mm) and pressure. Consider winter tyres in severe conditions.
  2. Lights: Ensure all lights are clean and working properly.
  3. Fluids: Top up windscreen washer fluid with appropriate antifreeze mixture.
  4. Battery: Cold weather reduces battery performance - check its condition.
  5. Visibility: Clean all windows, mirrors and lights. Replace worn wiper blades.

Emergency Kit

All Seasons

  • Warning triangle
  • High-visibility vest
  • First aid kit
  • Torch with spare batteries
  • Jump leads

Winter Specific

  • Ice scraper and de-icer
  • Blanket and warm clothing
  • Shovel
  • Grit or cat litter for traction
  • Snacks and water

Documentation

  • Breakdown cover details
  • Insurance documents
  • Emergency contact numbers
  • Road atlas (in case of sat nav failure)

Driving Techniques

Skid Control

  1. Identify the Skid: Determine if it's front-wheel (understeer) or rear-wheel (oversteer).
  2. Remove the Cause: Ease off the accelerator if due to harsh acceleration.
  3. Steer Into the Skid: For rear-wheel skid, steer gently in the direction the rear is sliding.
  4. Avoid Braking: Braking can worsen the skid, especially without ABS.
  5. Regain Control: Once straightened, accelerate gently to regain traction.

Aquaplaning

  • Recognize by sudden light steering and engine noise increasing
  • Do not brake suddenly - ease off accelerator
  • Hold steering straight until you feel contact with road
  • Ensure tyres have adequate tread depth to minimize risk

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