25 Sep Driving in Bad Weather – Tips for Rain, Snow, Fog and Ice
Intro:
Bad weather can make driving much more challenging, especially for new drivers. Rain, snow, fog and ice all affect visibility, grip, and stopping distances. Knowing how to adapt your driving in poor conditions is essential for staying safe.
Main Sections
1. Slow Down and Leave More Space
Stopping distances can double in rain and be up to ten times longer on ice. Reduce your speed and increase your following distance to give yourself more time to react.
2. Use Gentle Steering and Braking
Sudden movements can cause skidding on slippery roads. Apply the brakes gently, steer smoothly, and accelerate gradually.
3. Use Lights to Be Seen
In heavy rain, fog or snow, use dipped headlights so other drivers can see you clearly. Don’t use fog lights unless visibility is seriously reduced.
4. Watch for Standing Water
In heavy rain, avoid driving through deep puddles if possible. If you must, go slowly and steadily to avoid aquaplaning, and test your brakes gently afterwards.
5. Understand Aquaplaning
If your steering suddenly feels light in heavy rain, you may be aquaplaning. Ease off the accelerator gently and keep the steering straight until you regain grip — never brake suddenly.
6. Prepare for Snow and Ice
Drive in a higher gear to reduce wheelspin, accelerate very gently, and avoid sharp steering. Leave huge gaps and drive slowly — grip can be unpredictable.
7. Clear All Windows and Mirrors
Before you set off in cold or damp weather, fully clear your windscreen, windows, mirrors and lights. Reduced visibility massively increases risk.
8. Be Aware of Fog Hazards
Fog reduces visibility and makes it harder to judge speed and distance. Slow down, use dipped headlights, and keep a large gap from the vehicle in front.
9. Plan Ahead and Check the Forecast
Before long journeys, check the weather forecast. In severe conditions, delay your trip if possible — safety comes first.
10. Stay Calm if Conditions Worsen
If the weather gets worse while driving, slow down and stay calm. If needed, find a safe place to pull over and wait until conditions improve.
Conclusion
Bad weather demands extra caution, smooth control and forward planning. If you slow down, stay alert and give yourself extra space, you can stay safe even in challenging conditions.