UK Drivers Urged to Prepare for Storm Ciaran: Expert Tips for Safely Navigating Strong Winds
Weather conditions like strong winds contribute to hundreds of road accidents in the UK each year. As Storm Ciaran approaches, drivers are being urged to take precautions and not get caught unaware.
Understanding how to safely navigate strong winds while driving is crucial, particularly in the UK. Experts at First Vehicle Leasing warn that the perils of driving in strong winds are often underestimated.
It’s not just about controlling your vehicle but also about understanding and anticipating the conditions around you, they said.
What Makes Driving in Strong Winds Dangerous?
Driving in strong winds can pose significant risks. Strong winds can make any vehicle, even larger ones, susceptible to sudden shifts in direction. This effect can be especially amplified for drivers of high-sided vehicles or those towing caravans.
Unexpected gusts of wind can catch drivers off guard, leading to sudden and unplanned movements that have the potential to cause accidents. Given these factors, proficient driving in strong winds is vital to improving road safety.
Tips for Driving in Strong Winds
Although windstorms can vary, there are several tips that drivers can follow to enhance their safety:
– Reduce Speed: When faced with challenging driving conditions, reducing speed is an effective initial response.
– Stay Alert: Be prepared for gusts of wind, especially around large buildings, tunnels, and open roads.
– Secure Your Vehicle: Ensure that doors, windows, and hatches are firmly closed to prevent any potential issues.
– Maintain a Firm Grip: Keep both hands on the wheel to optimize control and respond quickly to any sudden changes in wind direction.
– Keep Distance: Leave ample space between your vehicle and others on the road, particularly bicycles and motorcycles.
– Avoid Overtaking: Resist the urge to overtake high-sided vehicles that may be more exposed to the wind, as this can increase the risk of accidents.
In the UK, drivers are required by law to be aware of weather conditions and adapt their driving accordingly. Failure to do so can result in penalties of up to £2000.
According to the UK Highway Code, drivers may face sanctions if they disregard weather conditions or fail to consider the safety of other road users. One way to avoid fines is to enhance driving skills, particularly in adverse weather conditions. It is crucial to adapt driving behavior and prioritize the safety of oneself and others.
First Vehicle Leasing also advises against splashing pedestrians, as doing so can lead to hefty fines or points on one’s license. It’s important to remember that even a minor lapse in concentration can have severe consequences. It doesn’t take a massive gust of wind to cause an accident.
For those looking to strengthen their skills in harsh weather driving, enrolling in a course specifically designed for adverse weather conditions is recommended.
Training programs that simulate wind gusts can effectively prepare drivers for how their cars may respond in real windstorms. These courses typically focus on techniques such as responding to sudden gusts of wind, employing defensive driving strategies, decreasing the risk of a rollover, and recovering from skids.
To thrive in the face of a windstorm, drivers should remember to stay informed, be alert, reduce speed, secure their vehicles, maintain a firm grip on the wheel, keep a safe distance, avoid overtaking, and consider taking a bad weather driving course.
By following these expert tips and being prepared, drivers can enhance their safety and minimize the risks associated with driving in strong winds.
