How to stay safe when driving through flood waters in the UK

Avoid moving too fast even in rather shallow puddles, as this can lead to aquaplaning, in which the front tires will no longer steer the car and you will lose control. It is also reckless and illegal to irrigate pedestrians.

When you get out of the water, gently dry the brakes and if there were leaves in the water, check to see if the radiator is clogged.

Another thing to look out for are restless drivers coming the other way. You may follow all the best tips, but big 4x4s or trucks racing, albeit in the opposite direction, can create such waves in an arc to drown your car.

If the worst happens and your car stops, leave the bonnet closed to avoid further water intrusion, climb out, lock the car, and read dry. In the worst emergencies, you can try to turn off the car by turning on the starter in first or reverse gear, but only a few starting engines will withstand such a punishment, so don’t rely on it.

The Environment Agency and AA strongly discourage intrusion into flooded water that moves or is more than 10 inches deep.

According to AA, a third of flood deaths involve a vehicle because drivers take unnecessary risks. In 2020, he rescued nearly 9,000 vehicles stranded or stuck in floodwaters, with an estimated insurance bill of more than £ 34 million.

How to ride in the wind

Due to the stormy weather currently awaiting the UK, drivers on the road need to be careful. Gusts of wind hit your car more often on open sections of roads or when you cross bridges or gaps in a hedge. Drivers should be aware that tree branches and other vehicles become unstable in windy weather.

The best tips for getting your car ready for windy driving

Before you even sit in a car in windy conditions, it is important to make sure that your car is properly prepared for winter weather – so that you and other road users have a safe route.

According to the allegations Car shopit is important to check the following things in your car for a smooth and safe ride in stormy weather.

• Tire tread depth – at least 3 mm is recommended in winter
• Tire pressure
• Liquid levels such as oil, screen washer and antifreeze
• Exterior lights
• Battery – The AA confirms that battery problems are the most common cause of calls in the winter months
• Winter essential package – shovel, flashlight, Hi-Vis jacket, blanket, extra layers of clothing, solid footwear, scraper, screen washer and refreshments
• Thoroughly clean all windows / mirrors of ice / snow
• Scrape the snow off the roof of your vehicle

The best tips for windsurfing

According to the Website AAdrivers must have both hands behind the wheel and be prepared for stronger winds on exposed parts of the road – or when crossing vehicles with high hips.

If you’re driving in windy conditions, be prepared for sudden jolts as you pass tall buildings – and reduce your speed so you can better control your car.

It is also a time that you need to pay special attention to cyclists and motorcyclists, as they will also be more sensitive to sudden gusts of wind. It is also important to keep your distance from other vehicles.

Watch out for downed trees – both on the road and above – and use downed twigs or small branches as a warning that lower down the road may be a larger tree.

Avoid towing trailers with high sides in windy conditions and expect lower speed limits or temporary closures due to fallen debris and accidents.

Always plan your route carefully and keep up to date with weather and traffic announcements.

This guide has been updated with the latest tips.

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