You MUST use headlights
when visibility is seriously reduced, generally when you cannot see for
more than 100 metres (328 feet). You may also use front or rear fog
lights but you MUST switch them off when visibility improves.
Wet weather. In wet weather, stopping distances
will be at least double those required for stopping on dry roads. This
is because your tyres have less grip on the road. In wet weather
§ you should keep well back from the vehicle in front. This will increase your ability to see and plan ahead
§ if the steering becomes
unresponsive, it probably means that water is preventing the tyres from
gripping the road. Ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually
§ the rain and spray from vehicles may make it difficult to see and be seen
§ be
aware of the dangers of spilt diesel that will make the surface very
slippery (see ‘Vehicle maintenance, safety and security’)
§ take extra care around pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders
Icy and snowy weather
In winter check the local weather
forecast for warnings of icy or snowy weather. DO NOT drive in these
conditions unless your journey is essential. If it is, take great care
and allow more time for your journey. Take an emergency kit of de-icer
and ice scraper, torch, warm clothing and boots, first aid kit, jump
leads and a shovel, together with a warm drink and emergency food in
case you get stuck or your vehicle breaks down.
Before you set off
· you MUST be able to see, so clear all snow and ice from all your windows
· you MUST ensure that lights are clean and number plates are clearly visible and legible
· make sure the mirrors are clear and the windows are demisted thoroughly
· remove all snow that might fall off into the path of other road users
· check your planned route is clear of delays and that no further snowfalls or severe weather are predicted
When driving in icy or snowy weather
· drive with care, even if the roads have been treated
· keep well back from the road user in front as stopping distances can be ten times greater than on dry roads
· take care when overtaking vehicles spreading salt or other de-icer, particularly if you are riding a motorcycle or cycle
· watch
out for snowploughs which may throw out snow on either side. Do
not overtake them unless the lane you intend to use has been cleared
· be prepared for the road conditions to change over relatively short distances
· listen
to travel bulletins and take note of variable message signs that
may provide information about weather, road and traffic conditions ahead
Drive extremely carefully when the roads are icy. Avoid sudden actions as these could cause loss of control. You should
· drive at a slow speed in as high a gear as possible; accelerate and brake very gently
· drive
particularly slowly on bends where loss of control is more likely.
Brake progressively on the straight before you reach a bend. Having slowed down, steer smoothly round the bend, avoiding sudden actions
· check
your grip on the road surface when there is snow or ice by choosing a
safe place to brake gently. If the steering feels unresponsive this may
indicate ice and your vehicle losing its grip on the road. When
travelling on ice, tyres make virtually no noise
High-sided
vehicles are most affected by windy weather, but strong gusts can also
blow a car, cyclist, motorcyclist or horse rider off course. This can
happen on open stretches of road exposed to strong crosswinds, or when passing bridges or gaps in hedges.
In
very windy weather your vehicle may be affected by turbulence created
by large vehicles. Motorcyclists are particularly affected, so keep
well back from them when they are overtaking a high-sided vehicle.
Fog
Before
entering fog check your mirrors then slow down. If the word ‘Fog’ is
shown on a roadside signal but the road is clear, be prepared for a
bank of fog or drifting patchy fog ahead. Even if it seems to be clearing, you can suddenly find yourself in thick fog.
When driving in fog you should
· use your lights as required
· keep a safe distance behind the vehicle in front. Rear lights can give a false sense of security
· be able to pull up well
within the distance you can see clearly. This is particularly important
on motorways and dual carriageways, as vehicles are travelling faster
· use your windscreen wipers and demisters
· beware of other drivers not using headlights
· not accelerate to get away from a vehicle which is too close behind you
· check
your mirrors before you slow down. Then use your brakes so that your
brake lights warn drivers behind you that you are slowing down
· stop
in the correct position at a junction with limited visibility and
listen for traffic. When you are sure it is safe to emerge, do so
positively and do not hesitate in a position that puts you directly in
the path of approaching vehicles
You MUST NOT use front or rear fog lights unless visibility is seriously reduced as they dazzle other road users and can obscure your brake lights. You MUST switch them off when visibility improves.
Hot weather. Keep your vehicle well
ventilated to avoid drowsiness. Be aware that the road surface may
become soft or if it rains after a dry spell it may become slippery.
These conditions could affect your steering and braking. If you are
dazzled by bright sunlight, slow down and if necessary, stop.