THE OFFICIAL HIGHWAY CODE : Driving in wet and windy weather

Post date: Nov 23, 2012 4:44:56 PM

The Highway Code applies to England, Scotland and Wales. It's essential reading for everyone. Here's a reminder about driving in wet and windy weather.

Rule 121

Brakes affected by water:

If you have driven through deep water your brakes may be less effective. Test them at the first safe opportunity by pushing gently on the brake pedal to make sure that they work. If they are not fully effective, gently apply light pressure while driving slowly. This will help to dry them out.

Rule 227

Wet weather:

In wet weather, stopping distances will be at least double those required for stopping on dry roads (download ‘Typical stopping distances’ (PDF, 127KB)).

This is because your tyres have less grip on the road. In wet weather you should keep well back from the vehicle in front. This will increase your ability to see and plan ahead if the steering becomes unresponsive, it probably means that water is preventing the tyres from gripping the road. Ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually the rain and spray from vehicles may make it difficult to see and be seen be aware of the dangers of spilt diesel that will make the surface very slippery take extra care around pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders

Rule 232

High-sided vehicles are most affected by windy weather, but strong gusts can also blow a car, cyclist, motorcyclist or horse rider off course. This can happen on open stretches of road exposed to strong crosswinds, or when passing bridges or gaps in hedges.

Rule 233

In very windy weather your vehicle may be affected by turbulence created by large vehicles. Motorcyclists are particularly affected, so keep well back from them when they are overtaking a high-sided vehicle.

Taken from : http://content.govdelivery.com/bulletins/gd/UKDSA-5e5a0d