Advice to motorists on weathering the storm

Motorists are being advised to avoid unnecessary journeys and take extra care on the roads as heavy rain and strong winds causes havoc across Britain.

With strong winds of up to 70mph being expected in some parts of the UK, motorists are being advised to take extra care on the roads. Breakdown expert, Green Flag, is urging motorists to check local weather forecasts before heading out and adapt driving techniques if out on the roads.

Strong winds have caused road traffic accidents and power cuts across the UK. In Scotland, heavy snowfall has left many motorists stranded.

Spokesperson Philippa Naylor said: “Sudden high winds, heavy rain and flooding are making driving conditions difficult and dangerous, particularly for drivers of high-sided vehicles. We are urging motorists to avoid unnecessary trips and adapt their driving technique to cope with the poor conditions.”

Green Flag Motoring Assistance is experiencing high levels of calls and is preparing for a busy weekend as a cold snap is forecast, and offers the following advice to help motorists cope:

Check your region’s weather forecast before setting off and throughout your journey.

Information can be found on the Met Office’s website at www.metoffice.gov.uk

High-sided vehicles are particularly vulnerable in high winds, so motorists are advised to avoid all but essential journeys and keep their speed down to maintain proper control of the vehicle.

In wet conditions drivers are advised to allow extra braking distance and keep their speed down. If aquaplaning occurs, keep movements calm and smooth, resist the urge to slam on the brakes and instead allow the car to slow down naturally.

When visibility is poor, driving requires more concentration than usual as motorists struggle to see ahead and judge braking distances. For this reason it is even more important to take regular breaks on long journeys.

To minimise the risk of breaking down in adverse weather, Green Flag advises motorists to spend a few minutes checking the following before setting off:

Ensure tyres are inflated to the correct pressure and have adequate tread depth

Check the oil and water levels and top up if necessary

Ensure wiper blades are in good condition and top up screen washer bottles

Make sure all lights are clean and in good working order to ensure optimum visibility

Carry a fully-charged mobile phone in the car with the number of your breakdown organisation stored in it in case of emergencies.

Keep a few essentials in the car such as a blanket, some water and some food in case you find yourself stranded.

Philippa concludes: “When sudden bad weather strikes calls to Green Flag can double in minutes. Hopefully, if motorists follow our advice, they can avoid any mishaps, but should they need us, we will be on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week to help.”