Over the past few years the UK has seen a sharp increase in the number of storms we’ve had to deal with. Even though the names they have these days aren’t that scary, a storm shouldn’t be taken lightly – it can cause serious damage, injury, and even death.
Last winter, Storm Eowyn was the UK’s most powerful windstorm for more than a decade, with gusts of 135mph, while Storm Bert hit us with the wettest day since October 2020. Not ideal driving conditions.
With another storm season on the way, here are our top tips for staying safe on the roads.
Driving in stormy weather
It sounds obvious, but check the weather forecast right before you leave. This time of year, the forecast can change pretty suddenly. If it looks bad, ask yourself if your journey is really necessary. The gym can wait for tomorrow.
If you do need to travel, follow these steps to stay safe:
- Keep a safe distance from other cars to avoid being blown into them if there’s a sudden gust of wind
- Be aware of gaps between large vehicles or buildings because you could be hit by a side wind
- Turn off the radio so you can keep your full attention on the road and what’s going on around you
- Keep your speed down so you’ve got more time to react if another car swerves to avoid a falling tree or flying debris
Preparing your car for winter
Getting your car ready to handle bad weather is one of the best ways to stay safe on the roads during winter.
Taking a few small precautions could mean fewer problems in the long run.
- Make sure your wiper fluids are topped up so you can keep your windscreen clear of dirt or salt from the road
- Check your tyres regularly for signs of wear and tear and replace them if they’re worn
- Get someone to help you check all your lights are working and keep them clean
- Test your brakes to make sure they are in full working order
- Keep emergency supplies like a blanket, a torch, and some food and water in your car
Heavy rain and flooding
Huge downpours and flash floods often come hand-in-hand with storms, making driving conditions extremely dangerous.
In fact, 9 out of 10 weather-related deaths and serious injuries on the road happen during rain.
If you must head out in a heavy downpour, visibility will be bad, so make sure you take extra care. Keep these precautions in mind:
- It goes without saying, but make sure you’ve got your windscreen wipers on!
- It might be difficult to see out of your wing mirrors and side windows, so take extra care at junctions – open a window briefly to help you get a better view of the road.
- Spray from other cars can block your view, so leave plenty of distance to the car in front.
- Try to avoid surface water on the road, which can be slippery and lead to aquaplaning.
- Finally, stick to main roads and avoid flooded routes – your car can float away in just 30cm of water.
Stay safe out there. And remember, if you ever need us, we’re here to help 24/7.
thank you for your advice good tips.
It should be obvious, but many drivers do not take care in bad weather. Thank you all the information you have given in this email.
Sound advice thank you.
Thanks very helpful.
Thank you. As an older driver I appreciate your advice…..and I follow it too!
thank you that was good of you to point out these things which can be dangerous on the roads i wont travel if it is bad not worth it Roy
Thank for all advice, much appreciated
Thanks.
Thankyou for my all your good information
Really helpful,mthankmyou.
Really helpful. Thank you
All good advice, the only other thing I would mention is keep your air vents clear and run your aircon, which will remove excess moisture in the car and help keep your windows clear inside.
that’s really good advice and hood information thanks
Very good advice
Thanks for your comments always good to also have reminders.
Great advice.
Keeping a safe distance has save my car on more than one occasion
Thank you for those tips on driving in a storm. It is really helpful to know these risks. I’m an old lady now and don’t want to take unnecessary risks. Your safety tips and advice are appreciated.
Thank you, reminders are always welcome.
Thanks for the update.its been very helpful and informative
What a brilliant article for all drivers but particularly new drivers. Common sense reminders on how to deal with inclement weather which can take anyone by surprise, especially very strong gusts and heavy rain where special care has to be paramount due to spray which can hinder vision, stopping distances and reactions. Car tyre pressures should be checked regularly and ensure your car is roadworthy – it could save your life and those of others-
By all means have your mobile with you for emergencies but just that. Put it on silent and don’t hold conversations whilst driving which are not only distracting but unnecessary until you stop somewhere safe like a motorway services.
Thank you Green Flag for your good advice, much appreciated.
Really useful tips and reminders – thank you!
Thank you very much, it is good to be reminded of problems that can occur in very bad conditions during the winter period. the one point to be aware of is standing water even on busy roads that does create back spray, hence the reason to keep your distance. One point that annoys me, many drivers drive too close in normal conditions, and should an emergency arrive to stop it is an accident looking for somewhere to happen, please press the point of driving too close.
Thank you for providing these reminders. I just hope people read an digest. It’s so easy to think you know it all.
Thank you this is timely advice
Thanks for the advice.
A lot of common sense things but all in all very helpful Thank you …
Very sound advice. Few people absolutely must venture out in foul weather. If you are not one of them, don’t. You are putting yourself and emergency services at risk.
Good information. It should be common sense anyway.
Many thanks.
Thanks for your good advice!
Thanks for your advice
Thank you so much for caring for all us motorists, it is very much appreciated
Thank you for thee tips and reminders.
Much appreciated
Thanks for the advice!
Wipers on, headlights on is a good guide to be visible to other road users.
Thank you for the advice
Excellent reminders. Thanks.
I will be making some long journeys soon. Thank you for your very useful hints to stay safe.