Van Driver Toolkit – Poor Weather Conditions
Did you know?
- Our most recent data shows that, on average, 13%* of all fatalities and serious injuries on the Strategic Road Network include weather conditions as a contributing factor to the incident.
- Of these, 78%* occurred in the rain (four times more than any other adverse weather condition). *Source STATS19 Road Safety Data www.data.gov.uk
- Leave twice as much space from the vehicle in front.
- If steering feels light due to aquaplaning, ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually.
- Avoid driving into flood water that is moving or more than 10cm (4 inches) deep.
- Be mindful of throwing water onto pavements, soaking pedestrians or cyclists.
- After driving in wet conditions, test brakes as soon as possible.
- Strong winds can be a dangerous hazard when driving and can impact the ability to steer the vehicle and remain on a straight path of travel.
- Keep both hands on the steering wheel and your speed low.
- Prepare for strong winds and gusts on exposed stretches of road.
- Leave extra room around cyclists and motorcyclists as they may veer across the road.
- Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, especially high-sided vehicles, and caravans.
- Remain alert to possible falling tree branches and other debris.
- Plan your journey carefully, checking weather and traffic bulletins regularly.
- Maintain a greater distance from the vehicle in front, increase the gap to at least 4 seconds.
- Keep your windscreen clear and demisted.
- Use lights where visibility is reduced to 100 metres (328 feet) or roughly the length of a football pitch.
- Don’t rely on following the taillights of the vehicle in front, as these can give a false sense of security.
- If visibility is very limited, consider the necessity of your journey.
Provider: Driving for Better Business, National Highways
Resource Type: Web link