Why does it always rain on me?

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06 October 2011

 

This week IAM Drive & Survive’s head of training Simon Elstow gives advice on driving in heavy rain.

 

·         Before you set off, set your heater controls – rain makes the windows mist up in seconds. You don’t want to be fiddling with controls when you should be concentrating on the road

·         Slow down. In the rain your stopping distance should be at least doubled. Giving yourself more space helps you to avoid spray, especially when following a large vehicle

·         Keep your eyes on the road ahead and plan your driving so that you can brake, accelerate and steer smoothly – harsh manoeuvres will unbalance the car

·         If you have cruise control, avoid using it on wet roads – it may create problems if you start to aquaplane

·         See and be seen. Put your lights on – as a rule of thumb, whenever you need to use your wipers you should also turn your headlights on, and before overtaking put your wipers on their fastest setting

·         Making sure your car is properly maintained will make a difference too. Check your wipers regularly, that your tyres are properly inflated and have enough tread, and that all of your lights work and are clean. By law, you must keep the windscreen washer filled, but remember, to keep your windows clean, you must do the inside as well

 

Elstow said: "There’s nothing quite like getting to your car in the rain. It’s a haven from the elements. But be cautious, especially after prolonged dry spells – rain on a dry road is dangerously slippery.

 

“And think about the people on the pavements – remember it is illegal to splash pedestrians.”

 

ENDS

 

Notes to editors:

 

  1. IAM Drive & Survive is a commercial subsidiary of the IAM and promotes occupational driver skills and safety for vehicle fleets businesses. IAM Drive & Survive helps employers achieve their duty of care to employees and reduce road accidents while driving on business. The IAM is the UK’s largest independent road safety charity, dedicated to improving standards and safety in driving, motorcycle riding and cycling.  The IAM has more than 100,000 members in the UK and Ireland. It is best known for the advanced driving test and the advanced driving, motorcycling and cycling courses.  Our policy and research division offers advice and expertise on road safety.
  2. For information about IAM Drive & Survive phone 0870 120 2910 or visit http://www.iamdriveandsurvive.co.uk

 

Media contacts:

IAM Drive and Survive Press Office – 020 8996 9777

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iam.org.uk

ENDS ALL