Safe Driving in Severe Weather Conditions
Driving in severe weather conditions is very different compared to other times. As we have found out recently with prolonged periods of heavy snow, sometimes conditions can be extreme, making driving more hazardous.
This means that we need to adapt the way we drive:
Wet roads mean less grip – your stopping distances will be at least doubled:
It’s useful to carry some of the following additional equipment in your vehicle in case you’re stranded:
Also, remember that in windy weather, strong gusts can affect your vehicle and cause drifts in snow, so you should reduce your speed. Motorcyclists and cyclists can be particularly affected by strong winds, so give them extra space when overtaking.
Driving in severe weather conditions is very different compared to other times. As we have found out recently with prolonged periods of heavy snow, sometimes conditions can be extreme, making driving more hazardous.
This means that we need to adapt the way we drive:
- Defrost all windows and mirrors and clear your roof, lights and number plates before you start your journey – ensure your screen wash is of the correct strength and type
- Be prepared for road conditions changing over relatively short distances
- Keep your speed down, use your brake and accelerator more gently
- Road signs and markings can become obscured by snow, so exercise caution
- On hills, leave plenty of space between you and the vehicle in front
- Watch out for snowploughs and gritters, which may throw out snow or grit on either side
Wet roads mean less grip – your stopping distances will be at least doubled:
- Keep well back from the vehicle in front. Doing this will increase your ability to see and plan ahead
- There could be standing water around. Look out for this, particularly on fast roads and on bends
- If your steering is unresponsive, it could be that water is preventing the tyres from gripping the road. Ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually
- Use your lights to make sure you’re more visible
It’s useful to carry some of the following additional equipment in your vehicle in case you’re stranded:
- Large blanket or sleeping bag
- Warm clothing
- Shovel
- Water and food such as chocolate bars/dried fruit and unsalted nuts
- Torch, consider a wind-up torch so there is no need to have spare batteries
- Mobile phone, ensure it is charged
- If you do get stuck in snow – do not run your engine, snow may block the exhaust and fumes will enter the vehicle
Also, remember that in windy weather, strong gusts can affect your vehicle and cause drifts in snow, so you should reduce your speed. Motorcyclists and cyclists can be particularly affected by strong winds, so give them extra space when overtaking.
The contents of this page are for reference purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Independent legal advice should be sought in relation to any specific legal matter.