You are here : Cars Homepage > News and Reviews Hub > Severe weather driving tips

Severe weather driving tips

Brake sufficiently before turning and leave a large gap between you and the car in front

01 February 2008

Driving could become dangerous over the weekend as heavy snow and strong winds look likely to hit the UK.

We’ve compiled the best of our extreme weather advice for you.

How to drive in strong winds

Gale force winds can be most violent on bridges and in gaps between buildings and trees – so take care by slowing down.

Be particularly wary when driving alongside cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders as strong gusts could blow them off course and into your path.

High-sided vehicles such as caravans and coaches can also veer off course from strong winds, so be careful when passing them.

Slow down and concentrate on your steering so you don’t move uncontrollably in the wind.

How to drive in snow

Follow our seven simple steps to ensure you remain safe when driving in snow:

• Check for signs of ice before driving – most modern cars have ice warning lights and temperature gauges – anything below three degrees centigrade means ice is likely
• If your tyres are very quiet, this could be a sign you’re driving on ice, so take great care and slow down
• Brake sufficiently before turning and leave a large gap between you and the vehicle in front
• Stopping distances are ten times longer in snow so keep manoeuvres - such as braking, accelerating or steering - gentle
• Wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing
• Look out for salt spreaders and snow ploughs. Both flash amber beacons and will drive at less than 40mph. Don’t overtake these vehicles unless it’s safe to do so and remember the grit could chip your car’s paintwork.
• Carry essential winter items with you – visit our winter driving page for more advice

Ice and how to avoid skidding

The potential to skid or lose control of your vehicle’s traction is increased when the roads are slippery, whether they’re icy or wet.

Here’s what you can do to avoid a skid:

1. Press the brakes lightly and infrequently rather than suddenly, otherwise the wheels can lock up
2. Slow down well in advance of a turn, and steer gently – this will prevent over-steering, where the back of the car slides into a skid
3. Keep your foot off the accelerator when turning – sudden increases in speed can cause your wheels to lock up too

The number one way to prevent skidding is to SLOW DOWN.

Read our skidding advice feature for more information on how to avoid a skid.

Rain and flooding advice

Stopping distances double in the wet – so can take 46 metres to stop after braking when travelling at 30mph.

Aquaplaning is where your car makes contact with a layer of water too fast, causing the tyres to brush against the surface of water rather than the road. If this happens, try not to brake hard or steering suddenly. Instead, let the car coast to reduce speed and regain grip.

Avoid driving through flooded roads, as they can ruin your engine and reduce the effectiveness of the brakes. If you have to pass through a flood, use first gear. Move at a slow pace and keep your revs high to avoid stalling the engine.

Test your brakes after passing through water. If they feel spongy or slack, pull over - your car may not be safe to continue until weather conditions improve.

Don’t splash pedestrians by driving through large puddles. You could be fined up to £2,500 for inconsiderate driving.

If you live in an area under flood warning, park your car on higher ground as long as it’s safe to do so, and take any important items out of your car – such as your insurance details and mobile phone.

Read our flood advice for motorists for more information about driving in heavy downpours.

Page 1