A COMMON button on your dashboard could help save you from the havoc brought by Storm Gerrit – and save you from a £1,000 fine.
The storm has been devastating parts of Britain and more chaos is expected.
GettyOnly 51 per cent of UK drivers admit to slowing down in wet weather[/caption]
A “supercell thunderstorm” crossed Greater Manchester last night causing widespread damage to properties, the Met Office said.
Those conditions can make driving hazardous and drivers need to take extra care on the roads.
However, research shows that only half, 51 per cent, of British drivers slow down whilst driving in rainy conditions, meaning 25 million drivers don’t, even though 1 in 8 have an accident in those conditions.
Women were revealed to be slightly more likely to slow down in the rain 52 per cent to 48 per cent for men, in a study by ATS Euromaster.
It also showed younger drivers, aged 18-24, are the least likely to slow down, with less than a third saying they do, 29 per cent, compared to 66 per cent of over 55s.
Only 8 per cent of new drivers – less than a year – admit to slowing down in heavy rain.
Expert Simon Waye, technical engineer at ATS Euromaster, has given his top tips to driving safely in heavy rain.
Waye says there are a number of checks you need to do before you even set out.
Check your tyres
He said: “Tyres with very low tread wear seriously affect the grip they have on the road.
“You can check your thread by using a penny upside down in between the tyre tread if you can see the top of the Queen’s head, the treads are worn and need replacing.
“The legal limit is at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. You may want to consider getting all season tyres too, which can be more effective at gripping.”
Check your wiper blades
Waye said: “It’s important to check that your front and back wiper blades are functioning and if not then get these replaced.”
Fill up your tank
The motoring expert said: “Getting stuck in traffic in bad weather increases your fuel consumption so make sure you have enough fuel in your car.”
Check for any weather advice
Waye advised: “Check out your local news bulletins or online for any road closures or any flooding that is affecting travel.”
There are also a number of factors you need to be aware of while on the road as well.
Use dipped headlights (avoid a fine)
Waye said: “If visibility is seriously reduced due to rain and spray from the roads, you should use your dipped headlights to help you and others.
“The research revealed almost two thirds, 62 per cent, of British drivers are not aware that using these will help improve visibility, despite the fact that it could land you a fine.”
He added: “Failing to use the appropriate lights when you are unable to see for more than 100 metres ahead of you could land you a £50 on-the-spot fine if stopped by police.”
Reduce your speed
Waye said: “During heavy rainfall, the roads will inevitably be more slippery than usual, which affects your braking time and general control of the car.
“Give yourself more time to react. Highways England says you should slow down and increase the gap between you and the vehicle in front to at least four seconds.”
Take care when braking
Waye said: “Braking or driving too fast in wet conditions can cause aquaplaning where your tyres lose grip of the road.
“If your steering suddenly feels light, this could be happening. If this does happen, ease off the accelerator, don’t brake and allow yourself to slow down until you have regained grip.”
Be wary of puddles
Waye recommended: “Don’t drive through a puddle if you can’t see the bottom of it.
“This can be very damaging to your car, and you could become stuck. If you do drive through a big pool of water, it’s important to check your brakes afterwards.”
Keep your aircon on (and avoid a heavy fine)
The engineer said: “Driving in the rain can mean your windows are likely to quickly steam up.
“Make sure you have your air conditioning on to make sure your visibility isn’t reduced.
Waye warned: “Driving with misty windows could land you a £1,000 fine and three points on your licence.”
GettyOne tip is to make sure your front and back wiper blades are working properly[/caption]