21/10/2026
🌧️🚗 **DRIVING IN THE RAIN – ARE YOU PREPARED?** 🚗🌧️
With the wet weather upon us, here's a reminder of some important tips to help keep you safe on the roads.
💡 **USE YOUR DIPPED HEADLIGHTS**
Don't just rely on daytime running lights! In heavy rain and poor visibility, dipped headlights help other road users see you, particularly lorry drivers who may struggle to spot vehicles through rain-covered mirrors and spray.
🚗 **KEEP YOUR DISTANCE – AT LEAST 4 SECONDS!**
The Highway Code recommends doubling your normal 2-second gap to at least 4 seconds on wet roads. Remember, stopping distances are at least DOUBLE in wet conditions.
💦 **WATCH OUT FOR AQUAPLANING**
When tyres lose contact with the road because of standing water, you can lose steering and braking control.
✔️ Reduce your speed, especially where water is collecting.
✔️ Avoid harsh braking and sudden steering movements.
✔️ Make sure your tyres have sufficient tread and are correctly inflated.
🌬️ **KEEP YOUR WINDOWS CLEAR**
Did you know your air conditioning isn't just for keeping cool?
**Using your A/C with the heater can help demist your windows much faster!**
✔️ Select the front windscreen demister.
✔️ Switch on the air conditioning to remove moisture from the air.
✔️ Use warm air and a suitable fan speed.
✔️ Switch off air recirculation to help bring in fresh air.
✔️ Use your heated rear window when needed.
🌧️ **USE YOUR WIPERS PROPERLY**
Adjust your wiper speed to suit the rain. If your wipers are leaving streaks or not clearing the screen properly, it's probably time to replace them.
⚠️ **LOOK OUT FOR HIDDEN HAZARDS**
Watch for standing water, flooded areas, pedestrians and cyclists. Be especially careful when driving through puddles near pavements — nobody appreciates an unexpected soaking!
**ONE FINAL TIP!**
If you encounter deep water or flooding, don't risk driving through it. You can't always judge the depth, and even relatively shallow water can cause serious problems.
🚗 **Remember: Slow down, increase your following distance and give yourself more time to react.**
Safe driving isn't just about passing your driving test — it's about staying safe long after you've passed!
**Paul Kerr Driving School**
*Chichester Driving Test Expert*
