Rain is a hazardous weather condition when driving. 

Even light rain can cause problems on the road.  By mixing in with the debris and oil on the road surface, raindrops can create a dangerous situation.

But it’s not possible to always sit indoors when it’s raining waiting for it to stop, so here are some tips to help keep you safe:

1.  Drive at a safe pace

Driving at a slower pace helps your tyres to grip the road.  This will reduce the risk of aquaplaning over the surface of the tarmac, a very dangerous situation because it means that you are no longer in control of your car.  Aquaplaning occurs when the tyre loses contact with the tarmac because of a layer of water.

2.  Count to four

Under normal driving conditions, a two second stopping distance between your vehicle and the car in front is recommended.  However, in adverse weather conditions it’s advisable to leave a four second gap.  This gives you valuable time to react to an emergency situation.  And should the car in front of you come to a sudden stop, you can stop your car by applying gradual to the brakes instead of braking harshly. 

3.  Turn on

Drive with your lights on, other drivers can see you better if it’s dark.  Just remember to switch them off when you park!

If you lose control …

… don’t panic!  Easier said than done, but if you panic you are more likely to be injured, so take a deep breath and keep these three points in mind. 

1. If you press the wheels too hard, they will lock.
2. Jumping on the accelerator to gain control will have the opposite affect.
3. You will not be able to straighten the car if you steer erratically, no matter how much effort you put into it. 

For further information on driving safely in wet weather, go to www.privilege.com.

Instead:

As soon as you feel the car moving out of your control, take your foot off the accelerator quickly but smoothly.  Focus on bringing the back end of the car into line with the front by turning into the skid, so that the car is going in one direction. 

Although your first reaction will probably be to brake, remember to brake gently and softly in line with the reaction of the car.  If your car has an automatic braking system (ABS), push firmly on the brake as you turn into the skid.   

Roads under water

If you come face to face with a body of water on the roads, remember these tips: 

1.  Avoid if you can

If there is an alternative route, take it rather than risk being stranded. 

2.  Do not underestimate the power of water

A car can float on just two feet of quick moving water, and even slow moving water has the power to move a vehicle, not a good situation to be in if you are on a steep embankment.

3.  If there is no alternative

Put the car into its lowest gear and move slowly through the flooded area.  Do not allow the car to stall by keeping the revs high.  This will also prevent water from entering the exhaust pipe. 

If you do not know the depth of the water, however, do not take the chance. 

There are other things to remember when driving in the rain:

1. Be aware of other road users that are perhaps more vulnerable, such as pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and horses.
2. Replace your windscreen wiper blades regularly
3. Dip your lights at night to avoid glare from the wet conditions
4. Use your air conditioner to keep the inside of your windows clear.

It’s important to remember, however, no matter how much care you take when driving in adverse conditions, there are many things out of your control on the road.  It’s important, therefore, to ensure that you have a comprehensive motor car insurance.

For all your motor insurance needs, go to www.privilege.com.