Wet Weather Driving

When driving in wet weather, it is important to be mindful of pedestrians and avoid splashing them. Not only is this inconsiderate, but it could cost you a £100 fine and 3 penalty points on your licence.

Obtaining your driving licence comes with great responsibility – one of those is to drive with due care, attention and consideration for other road users.

Whilst driving, you should always look well ahead, scanning for developing hazards and planning accordingly. In rainy and wet weather, these hazards include damaged road surfaces resulting in large pot-holes, flood signs, flooded sections, and pedestrians approaching such areas.

Dealing with these hazards is simple:

Headlights – Keep your headlights on if your car doesn’t have day-running lamps. This will allow you to be seen clearly.

Speed – with the speed limit in mind, you should drive at a speed that will allow you to accurately assess the road surface condition ahead and stop safely should you need to.

Mirrors – use at least your middle mirror regularly. You should be aware of vehicles behind you and how close they are at all times. If the vehicle behind is travelling too close, you should consider reducing your speed further in the name of safety.

Spotting a puddle or pot hole:

When you spot a puddle, your option will be to stop, slow or avoid. This will depend on the severity of it: is it a puddle or something worse? Are there any pedestrians nearby? Are there oncoming vehicles?

If you have taken the above-mentioned action, your speed should allow you to take any of these options safely:

Stopping or slowing down

Check your middle mirror one last time and start slowing early if the vehicle behind you is close. One reason why you would want to stop is if you notice water flowing down into a hole; there could be a missing manhole cover.

 Avoid

Once again, check your middle mirror and slow down early if the vehicle behind you is close. When it is safe ahead, check your middle mirror followed by the mirror on the side you are turning before moving out; consider if a blind spot check is required.

 

Drive safe; arrive on time, and alive.