There’s nothing Brits like talking about more than the weather. From snowstorms in the midst of winter (and sometimes spring) to record-breaking temperatures at the height of summer, our different types of weather bring with them all kinds of considerations when it comes to hitting the road.
You can easily skid on icy roads, putting both yourself and others in danger, while even the glare of the sun can make it hard to see in the hotter months. In this post, we’ll look at how you can drive in the rain, snow, fog, wind and heat.
Can you drive a car when there’s a weather warning?
We all know we should be driving safely and this is even more important when there are treacherous conditions. There are three different types of weather warning issued by The Met Office:
- Yellow – Issued when it’s likely weather will cause some low-level impact, including disruption to travel in a few places.
- Amber – Issued when there’s an increased likelihood of impacts from severe weather including travel delays, road and rail closures and potential risk to life and property.
- Red – Issued when dangerous weather is expected, with an increased risk to life and substantial disruption to travel. You should avoid travelling if possible and follow the advice of the emergency services and local authorities.
Weather in The Highway Code
Driving in adverse weather conditions is also covered in Rules 226 to 237 of The Highway Code. Below are short summaries of each rule.
Rule 226 – General
Use your headlights when visibility is reduced (generally when you cannot see for more than 100m (328ft).
Rule 227 – Wet weather
Stopping distances during wet weather will be at least double those when stopping on dry weather. Keep well back from the vehicle in front of you and take extra care, especially around pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders.
Rules 228-231 – Icy and snowy weather
Check the weather forecast before driving in icy or snowy weather. Do not drive unless your journey is essential. If you do decide to drive, take great care, allow more time for your journey and pack an emergency winter kit.
Before driving in snow and ice…
- Clear snow and ice from all windows, mirrors, and lights.
- Ensure your vehicle is roadworthy, including visible number plates and properly inflated tyres.
- Pack an emergency kit (warm blankets, snacks, a torch, a shovel).
- Check your route and weather forecast before setting out.
You should keep well back from the car in front of you as stopping distances can be 10 times greater than on dry roads. Drive at a slow speed in a high gear and try to avoid sudden actions.
Listen out for travel bulletins so that you know what to expect.
Rules 232-233 – Windy weather
Strong gusts can blow high-sided vehicles, cars, cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders off course.
Your vehicle may be affected by the turbulence created by large vehicles.
Rules 234-236 – Fog
Before entering foggy conditions, check your mirrors and slow down. Prepare for drifting patchy fog ahead.
When driving in fog:
- Use your lights.
- Keep a safe distance.
- Ensure you can pull up well within the distance of which you can see clearly.
- Use windscreen wipers and demisters.
- Beware of other drivers.
- Check your mirrors before slowing down.
Do not use front or rear fog lights unless visibility is seriously reduced.
Rule 237 – Hot weather
Keep your vehicle well ventilated and be aware the road surface may change according to conditions. This can affect steering and braking.
Preparing to drive in severe weather
As with so many things in life, it’s always worth planning ahead. No matter what time of year (check out our autumn driving tips, winter driving guide and 5 ways to keep your car cool this summer for more in-depth overviews), it’s important to maintain your car and be prepared in case of an emergency.
Vehicle maintenance
Check your lights, tyres, wipers and fluids on a regular basis and especially if you’re planning on a long journey.
Pack your emergency kit
Being stuck on the side of a road, potentially for hours, is not fun in any kind of weather. Pack an emergency kit with the following:
- Snacks and drinks
- Torch
- Hi-vis jacket
- Warm blankets
- Spare clothes
- Sun cream (to help protect you from seasonal conditions)
Check the weather forecast and plan your journey appropriately
If you have to drive somewhere in treacherous conditions, check the weather forecast. It may be that you can wait an hour or two and drive in much better conditions. You could also look up alternative routes and see if they can get you to your destination safely.
It’s always worth looking at the traffic on Google Maps before leaving as well. This way, you can easily see the roads that are closed and ones that will cause a challenge.
Driving Safely in Different Weather Conditions
Driving in rain
Potential hazards when driving in rain include:
- Reduced visibility
- Slippery surfaces
- Aquaplaning.
Reduce your speed and leave plenty of room between you and the car in front, use dipped headlights for increased visibility and try to avoid sudden braking.
Ever found yourself aquaplaning during a sudden downpour? Next time, try to stay calm and keep your steering straight, avoiding sudden movements.
Take your foot off the gas until the car regains traction and gently brake. When your tyres are back on the road, continue driving at a slower speed.
Driving in snow and ice
Black ice and loss of traction can make driving difficult and dangerous in these wintry conditions. You’re also likely to encounter severe delays and even road closures. If there’s a red warning, you should avoid travelling unless it’s an essential journey.
For safe driving in winter, make sure you clear all the snow and ice from your car before setting off, pack an emergency kit (including a shovel, if you have one) and use higher gears.
Driving in fog
If there’s a thick layer of fog, you’re not going to be able to see other road users or potential hazards very clearly. Stick to a slow and steady pace and avoid overtaking, using fog lights when appropriate.
Driving in strong winds
Heavy gusts of wind can knock vehicles, especially high-sided ones, off course and also cause issues with flying debris. Slow down and keep a tight grip on the steering wheel while driving in strong wind and take extra caution around other vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians.
Leave extra space between you and the vehicle in front to allow more time to slow down or brake if they are blown off course. You should also avoid overtaking other vehicles.
Driving in extreme heat
From driver fatigue to overheated engines (The RAC has advice on what to do if you can see your engine smoking), there are a number of issues to be aware of when driving in hot weather. Make sure you are:
- Hydrated
- Fully rested
- Taking regular breaks on long journeys
Pull down your sun visors and wear some sunglasses to reduce the glare coming through your windscreen. It’s also important to keep an eye on your coolant levels and the pressure of your tyres.
Road safety tips
Sometimes, conditions might just be too dangerous for you to drive. It’s important you heed these warnings before attempting to travel. If you can put off your plans for a few hours or a day, it might be safer to do so.
The most sensible option is to look into alternative travel options or postpone your trip, especially if it’s not essential. The Met Office’s Amber and Red Weather Warnings should help you plan and local authorities will do all they can to make journeys as smooth as possible.
When driving in different weather, you could follow the ABC advice of road charity Brake.org:
- Avoid driving – If conditions are just too dangerous and pose a risk to your health.
- Be prepared – Always make plans ahead of time and keep an eye on predictions and forecasts so you can adapt your journey or make alternative arrangements.
- Careful and cautious driving – Take your time to get where you need to go.
Brake.org’s research claims 1 in 13 road crashes are partly caused by a slippery road. A clear indication that it’s important to stay safe.
Tempcover It!
If you’re not confident driving in extreme weather conditions, why not ask a loved one to drive your car? Get them some temporary car insurance and they’ll be ready to go in next to no time.
Tempcover’s short-term insurance is flexible from one hour to 28 days, fully comprehensive and completely separate from any existing policy, meaning it won’t affect any existing no claims discounts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you drive during a weather warning?
You can, but this will depend on the level of warning. If the Met Office puts out a Red Warning, you should avoid travelling on the roads unless it’s an essential journey.
What are the stopping distances in snowy or icy conditions?
Stopping distances at least double in wet conditions and can be up to 10 times longer when the road is icy or has snow on it. Drive carefully and slowly, ensuring there’s plenty of distance between you and the car in front.
When should I use my fog lights?
You should only use your fog lights when visibility has been seriously reduced. When the weather has cleared up, you should take them off to avoid dazzling other drivers.
How can I prevent my car from overheating during the summer?
Check your coolant levels and keep your vehicle well ventilated when possible. Take breaks while on the road to help reduce the strain on your engine.
Where should I check for news on local road closures?
Check Google Maps or look for local travel updates before heading off on any journey in treacherous conditions. They will let you know the latest traffic conditions and if there are any road closures.
Sources
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/the-highway-code/driving-in-adverse-weather-conditions-226-to-237
https://nationalhighways.co.uk/road-safety/travelling-in-severe-weather/travelling-when-its-raining
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/content/advice/tips-for-driving-in-dangerous-conditions
https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/guides/warnings#
https://nationalhighways.co.uk/road-safety/travelling-in-severe-weather/travelling-in-strong-winds/
