Tips for Driving in Heavy Rain
If you’ve just passed your test or you’re still learning then perhaps one of your worst nightmares is driving in heavy rain. It’s not surprising, it can be hazardous to drive in, that’s why we’ve come up with some tips on driving in heavy rain, we hope you find it helpful.
Your car is more likely to breakdown in extreme weather, especially in heavy rain but there are ways to avoid accidents. Driving through deep water could cause your engine to fail and that could cost quite a bit to repair.
What can you do to stay safe and avoid accidents?
Do you really need to go out? It may be safer if you can postpone your journey until the weather clears if it is really bad outside.
If you do have to go out, plan in advance, make sure you know the route and be aware of where’s flooded so you can avoid and factor in all this into your journey. Allow for traffic speed to be slower as well because of the weather and don't rush.
Make sure your family and friends know where you are and where you’re going. Travel with others rather than alone if possible, so if you do break down you’ve got someone to help
Check your car is in full working order before setting off. This should include windscreen wipers, engine, oil, water and lights, and make sure you fill up the car with fuel
Make sure you have a mobile phone to hand and that it’s fully charged so you can get in touch with someone should you get into difficulties or break down.
When you’re actually on the road, follow these essential tips:
Don’t use rear fog lights because they’ll only dazzle those behind you and mask your brake lights, so drivers won’t know when you’ve stopped suddenly
Use dipped headlights
Always leave more space between you and the other driver than you would in dry conditions.
Keep an eye out for fast moving and heavy vehicles because they’re more likely to create water spray and reduce your visibility
Keep an ear out for news bulletins on weather conditions in your area
If you break down make sure you keep your bonnet closed while you’re waiting for someone to assist because you could damage your electrical system if you don’t
Don’t drive too fast through water because tyres could lose their grip on the road. If your steering is light all of a sudden, this could be due to the fact you’re aquaplaning
To get a grip of the steering again, ease off accelerator and don’t brake, let your speed reduce slowly until you’ve got control again
Consider any cyclists or pedestrians on the road, they’re having a hard time too.
If you’re driving through flooded areas, keep the following in mind:
Don’t drive through it if you’re unsure of how deep it is, look at the edge of the kerb, this will give you an idea of how deep it is
Drive on the highest part of the road
Drive slowly, and check you have a clear way ahead of you
Keep your distance from the vehicle in front of you
Test your brakes after you’ve left the flooded area
If your engine cuts out after driving through a flooded area, then don’t repeatedly attempt to start the engine again, call for assistance because you could cause further damage.
Compass ProDrive – Premier Driving Instructors in Edinburgh
Looking for driving lessons in Edinburgh or West Lothian? Then look no further than Compass Prodrive. We’re a team of experienced professional drivers with many years of experience on the road. We’d love to help you pass your test so get in touch.
