How to drive safely in all weather conditions? A complete guide

What makes an experienced motorist? It's not just driving on highways or smooth terrain; it includes tackling the changing weather conditions, too. Especially in the UK, when the weather is constantly changing, being able to drive safely in every condition is how you become an experienced driver. The summer winds, the fog, or even the icy roads, should not be an obstacle for you if you follow this guide. By the end of this guide, you will be familiar with essential tips that will help you drive safely in all weather conditions.

What you should always know?

Before starting any journey, there are a few factors you always need to know. These are some key points that might help you in making your journey safer every time:

• The first and foremost factor is making sure your vehicle is always ready for the road.
• Different weather conditions need different preparations and you should be aware of them.
• Poor visibility is a given if you are driving at night.
• Before driving in poor weather conditions, ask yourself if you have to make the journey. Set your priorities and then decide on the importance of the journey.
• If driving in poor conditions becomes non-negotiable, always carry an emergency kit.

How to make sure your vehicle is road-ready?

Regardless of the varying weather conditions, your vehicle should always be in a decent condition. Even when you are not driving on rough terrains or in poor conditions, a well-maintained car is a safe one. Regular services, especially before the onset of winter, are crucial. Here is a checklist to ensure your vehicle is ready for the road:

• Keep your fuel tank full. You never know when you might be stranded in adverse conditions and a filling station might not always be within your reach.
• A good tread depth and proper air pressure are important for your tyres in Reading. Invest in regular servicing of tyres.
• If you have a spare tyre, carry it with you, especially when driving in poor conditions.
• Clean your windows and lights. Ensure they are functioning properly.
• Have a fully functioning car heater and demister.
• Have a fully charged battery with no malfunctions.
• Regularly clean your wiper blades. Ensure they are in good condition.
• Top up your windscreen water timely and add screen wash when required.
• An extra de-icer, ice scraper or screen wash might come in handy.

How to deal with different weather conditions?

The UK weather can throw at you various obstacles while driving. From dense fog to wet pavements and snowy roads: you would have to tackle them all. The best way to deal with changing weather conditions is to manage your driving style accordingly. So, here are some tips for dealing with different weather conditions while driving:

Wet Weather Conditions.

1. Follow safe distance: Brakes and tyres lose much of their efficiency on wet roads. In such conditions, there should be double the normal distance between your car and the one in front of you.
2. Check for floods: Driving in floods could be dangerous and might even damage your car. The deepest water level should be nearer the kerb. If you feel the water is too deep, choose an alternative route for safety. If you have to drive through the flood, check your brakes after.
3. Use dipped lights: In heavy rain, sidelights alone are not sufficiently bright. So, dipper lights are a necessity. Keep all the lights clean and in proper working condition.
4. Avoid aquaplaning: Aquaplaning can occur when you drive too fast on a wet surface. Reduce your speed and ensure the correct tread depth and air pressure for your tyres.

Snow and Ice Weather Conditions.

1. Drive slowly: Snowy pavements offer less friction for your tyres, and your braking distance could increase. Hence, in such conditions, it is vital to drive slowly, so you can avoid skidding. This also gives other drivers sufficient time to see you and avoid collisions.
2. Invest in the right tyre: Not all tyres Reading are designed to perform under all weather conditions. For driving on snow-covered roads, winter type is the right fit. The Alpin line of tyres, such as the Pilot Alpin 5, is designed by Michelin. These are some of the best among the winter category of Michelin tyres. So, invest in the right tyre for optimal safety.
3. Avoid sudden actions: Rough driving can be severely dangerous in winter conditions. Avoid sudden braking, acceleration, or steering for safe driving.
4. Use lights: Sidelights and dipped lights are your companions in winter conditions. These can help the other drivers to spot you on time.

Warm Weather Conditions.

1. Hydrate yourself: While driving in high heat, the chances of dehydration increase. Take regular breaks to hydrate yourself.
2. Cool down: To keep your vehicle cool, use the air conditioning. You can even put the windows down to avoid stuffiness. Maintain that your air con is regassed timely and there are no malfunctions.
3. Dress lightly: This goes without saying that light clothing is a necessity for driving in warm conditions.

Foggy Conditions.

1. Avoid driving: Unless it is necessary, avoid driving in fog. If it is, make sure you have sufficient time to reach the destination.
2. Use the lights: Use your headlights if the visibility is compromised due the fog. Front or rear fog lights are vital too.
3. Reduce speed: Drive with reduced speed, even when the visibility “improves”. You might find yourself with reduced visibility in case of patchy fog.

Every car owner needs a certain level of expertise while driving in different weather conditions. Follow this guide to learn how to tackle any weather, and enjoy a safer driving journey.