Driving in Bad Weather. Tips from Car Insurance Experts

Man driving with glasses for Find Insurance NI blog

Driving in Bad Weather. Tips from Car Insurance Experts

Car Insurance broker Find Insurance NI – advice guide for motorists. 

Weather presents different challenges in different seasons in NI. It’s not just winter weather which can wreak havoc on the roads – even rain at any time of the year can be dangerous – in fact 9 out of 10 weather-related deaths and serious injuries on the roads take place in the rain. From high winds, strong sunlight and fog to snow and ice, all weathers can present different challenges both for keeping the travel networks open and for those navigating through the difficult conditions.

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CHOICES AND PLANNING AHEAD

  • Even moderate rain can reduce your ability to see and be seen. When rain starts it’s time to slow down’.
  • If heavy downpours, avoid starting your journey until it clears, or pull over if its safe if it’s a cloud-burst.
  • Choose main roads, where you are less likely to be exposed to fallen branches and debris and flooding.
  • Use dipped headlights if visibility is seriously reduced.
  • Gusts of wind can unsettle vehicles rapidly – grip your steering wheel firmly with both hands. This is particularly important when planning to overtake.
  • Keep an eye out for gaps between trees, buildings or bridges over a river or railway – these are some of the places you are more likely to be exposed to side winds.
  • Roads will be more slippery than usual in wet weather – be sure to give yourself more time to react when approaching a hazard. Increase your following gap to at least four seconds from the moving traffic in front. If in doubt, again slow down!
  • Keep your eyes on the road at all times as spray from other vehicles can suddenly reduce your visibility. Remember it affects others too, so anticipate their actions and be prepared.

WHAT TO DO WHEN THE ROAD IS FLOODED

  • On flooded roads, think before driving through deep water; don’t stop in standing water, and drive through the highest section of the road slowly. If there is any doubt don’t enter it.
  • Once you have managed to drive through check your brakes and dry them out as quickly as possible – a light touch of the brakes whilst still moving should do the trick.

KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR CYCLISTS, MOTORCYCLISTS AND PEDESTRIANS

  • Remember to give vulnerable road users including cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians more room than usual. They are more likely to be blown around by side winds – always keep a safe distance.