When driving in heavy rain and wet road conditions following this advice will help you to stay safe on the road to your journey.
1) It takes longer to stop a vehicle on wet roads so slow down and allow extra distance between you and the vehicle in front.
2) Watch out for falling/fallen debris on the road and vehicles veering across the road
3) Take special care when driving behind goods vehicles as they generate a considerable amount of spray which reduces your visibility
4) Allow extra space between you and vulnerable road users such as cyclists and motorcyclists
5) Drive with dipped headlights at all times
6) Be aware of the danger of aquaplaning especially on roads with speed limits of 100 km/h and 120 km/h.
7) Check tyres and consider replacing them if the thread depth is below 3mm.
With added risks posed by wet or flooded roads as an ADI (approved Driver Instructor) I would advise as follows;
– If the road ahead is flooded choose another route, do not attempt to drive through it. Flooded roads that appear shallow could be deeper than you think.
– After going through water, drive slowly with your foot on the brake pedal for a short distance – this helps to dry the brakes.
– Sometimes roads can be closed due to their fragile state after wet weather or because they are blocked by flooding. Road users should always follow recommended routes and obey signs closing roads to traffic
– Watch out for washed out roads, earth slides, broken water or sewer mains, loose or downed electrical wires, and fallen or falling objects
Advice to Pedestrians & Cyclists;
– Be seen. Wear a high visibility jacket or reflective armband
– Take extra care when near traffic or crossing the road in extremely windy conditions as a sudden gust of wind could blow you into the path of an oncoming vehicle.
If you are struggling when driving with heavy rain conditions & wet road, as an ADI I can help you to build up your confidence & help you to stay save on the road, for further help you can contact us on Mob 086 044 0157 or email francis@castletownsom.com.
Thank for reading our blog.
Castletown School of Motoring
ADI number 35 371
Francis