Six Top Tips for Driving in a Storm
Driving can become hazardous in extreme conditions and with severe weather warnings being issued recently in Ayr and Western Scotland, it is important to be especially careful on the roads.
Storm Ali has caused havoc in Scotland. Trains between Ayrshire and Glasgow were suspended, trees have been falling, causing road closures and a roof was even torn from a block of flats in Ayr!
In a storm, wind and rain can get out of control, and driving may be affected. The following tips could help you stay safe when driving in a storm.
1 Don’t Make Unnecessary Journeys
Driving in a fierce storm increases the risk of an accident occurring significantly, so if you can avoid making a trip, do. If the journey must be made, leave early to allow extra time for cautious driving and traffic congestion.
2 Take Your Time
Rain causes poor visibility, as well as the risk of hydroplaning and losing control of the vehicle. Make sure you take it easy when the roads are wet, as slowing down is the best way to combat hydroplaning, where the tyres are moving on the layer of water instead of gripping to the road. Do not rush to your destination, leave earlier and give yourself plenty of time to make the trip.
3 Put Your Lights On
Be sure to put your lights on in poor visibility. Even if it isn't necessarily dark, having your lights on makes it much easier for other vehicles to see you.
4 Make Room
Give other vehicles plenty of room on the roads. By getting to close to the car in front, you are increasing the risk of hitting them. Give yourself time to react if another vehicle slams on their brakes. Remember, in heavy rain, the two-second rule becomes the four-second rule.
5 Stay Vigilant
In extreme storms, the wind speed can reach incredibly high levels. Storm Ali brought 80mph winds in Ayr and this can be a real danger to vehicles. Cyclists and motorcyclists as well as larger vehicles like lorries could be blown off course so give them plenty of room. Gales can blow things around and cause trees to fall, so you will need to anticipate this and be extra vigilant.
6 Turn on the Radio
Where trees have fallen, or areas are deemed dangerous, there may be road closures. Tune in to a radio station giving regular updates so you are prepared to adjust your route accordingly.