A DRIVING instructor has revealed why you are likely parking wrong in a storm and how it could cost you thousands.
The expert from driveJohnson’s shared the handy tip ahead of Storm Babet’s forecast touchdown in the UK tomorrow.
AlamyA driving instructor has revealed how parking badly in a storm could cost you thousands[/caption]
The weather is expected to turn overnight, with the Met Office warning of flooding, seven inches of rain and winds of up to 60mph.
However, not many motorists know that poor parking could see them rack up hefty maintenance bills.
The motors whizz advised drivers to always park facing the wind, especially when stormy conditions are predicted.
This is because the front of the car is more likely to stand up to being hit by debris swept along in strong winds, reducing the chance of expensive damage.
They explained: “The front of your car is considerably stronger than the rear.
“Strong winds can easily cause anything from tree branches to debris to blow onto your car causing potential dents and scratches in your paintwork.
“Parking facing the wind rather than the back or side will reduce the risk of damage.”
Likewise, they also urged road users to avoid parking up under trees and to avoid small, narrow roads, which are less likely to have been cleared of branches or stones.
Other top tips included always keeping your hands on the steering wheel, slowing down before bends and leaving extra room for cyclists and bikers.
All of these reduce the danger of being blown off course by strong side winds, which could potentially cause a crash.
Similarly, headlights should be kept dipped and stopping distances doubled in order to take poor visibility and slick road surfaces into account.
Rural areas can often be more exposed so drivers should take extra care, while high bridges and open motorways can also be a risk.
Only travel in severe weather if you have to and keep up to date with weather warnings and official advice for your area.
It comes after a car servicing expert shared a 10p hack for defrosting your car’s windscreen with ease.
Meanwhile, a video clip caught the shocking moment a £25,000 Kia SUV burst into flames on a busy road.