EXPERTS have shared four ways drivers can stay safe during Storm Jocelyn, including how to reduce the risk of “aquaplaning”.
Gales of up to 97mph have battered the UK while a “do not travel” alert is in place following the tragic loss of five lives during fierce storms.
PAMotoring experts have shared their top tips for staying safe if you have to drive during Storm Jocelyn[/caption]
Amber and yellow weather warnings blanket much of the country and multiple road closures have been announced, while delays and cancellations blight rail and air links.
Now, HGV training specialists Driver Hire Training have put together a list of top tips for travelling safely if doing so is absolutely essential.
First of all, they recommended keeping a decent distance from the vehicle in front and being wary of increased braking distances.
It can take up two twice as long to stop on wet roads so leaving extra room during downpours is vital.
Official advice recommends staying at least two seconds behind the car in front in normal conditions.
You can measure this by using markers along the road like lamposts or gantries.
However, when it’s wet, this should be increased to four seconds.
Secondly, the experts advised keeping a firm grip on your steering wheel to combat windy conditions.
Try and avoid drifting and stay central in your lane, while making sure to take account for sudden gusts.
Keep both hands on the wheel to give yourself the best chance to adjust and be wary of exposed patches of road like bridges or flyovers.
Thirdly, they addressed the risk of aquaplaning, where the tyres lose grip on the wet road surface, sending you into a skid.
While it may seem counterintuitive, motorists should never hit the brakes when this happens, as that can cause the wheels to lock and make the slide worse.
If you do lose control, simply remove your foot from the accelerator and allow the friction of the engine to slow you down gradually.
Also, resist the urge to steer against the skid in an attempt to correct it as this could cause your back end to flick out and spin your motor.
Instead, steer gently into the direction of the skid to try and realign the front part of your car with the rear.
Finally, drivers should make sure to carry some basic essentials in case they are stranded by the storm.
Richard Owen-Hughes, Marketing Director at Driver Hire Training, said: “Make sure you’re prepared for any eventuality and direction the weather could take.
“You should consider carrying items such as an ice scraper, de-icer, torch, spare batteries, first aid kid, extra thermal layers, dry spare shoes, shovel, jump leads, warning triangles, and a charger for your phone.”
It comes after a former policeman shared an “unusual” hack to keep your vehicle safe from theft.