Driving in adverse weather conditions (226 to 237)

General guidance

226

You must use headlights when visibility is seriously reduced, generally when you cannot see for more than 100 metres (328 feet). You may also use front or rear fog lights but you must switch them off when visibility improves (see rule 236).

Law RVLR regs 28 & 30

Wet weather

227

In wet weather, stopping distances will be at least double those required for stopping on dry roads (see rule 126). 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 (see 'Vehicle maintenance, safety and security)
• take extra care around pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and horse riders
• General rules, techniques and advice for all drivers and riders (103 to 158)
• Vehicle maintenance, safety and security

Icy and snowy weather

228 

In winter check the local weather forecast for warnings of icy or snowy weather.

Do not drive in these conditions unless your journey is essential.  

If it is, take great care and allow more time for your journey. Take an emergency kit of de-icer, ice scraper, torch, warm clothing and boots, first aid kit, jump leads and a shovel together with a warm drink and emergency food in case you get stuck or your vehicle breaks down.

229

Before you set off:

• you must be able to see, so clear all snow and ice from your windows
• you must ensure that lights are clean and number plates are clearly visible and legible
• make sure the mirrors are clear and windows are de-misted thoroughly
• remove all snow that might fall into the path of other road users
• check your planned route is clear of delays and that no further snowfall or severe weather are predicted

Laws CUR reg 35, RVLR reg 26, VERA sect 43 & RV(DRM)R reg 11 

230

When driving in icy or snowy weather:

• drive with care, even if the roads have been treated
• keep well back from the road user in front as stopping distances can be ten times greater than on dry roads
• take care when overtaking vehicles spreading salt or other de-icer, particularly if you are riding a motorcycle or cycle
• watch out for snowploughs which may throw out snow on either side
• do not overtake them unless the lane you intend to take has been cleared
• be prepared for the road conditions to change over relatively short distances
• listen to travel bulletins and take note of variable message signs that may provide information about weather, road and traffic conditions ahead

231

Drive extremely carefully when the roads are icy. Avoid sudden distractions as these could cause loss of control. You should:

• drive at a slow speed in as high a gear as possible; accelerate and brake very gently
• drive particularly slowly on bends where loss of control is more likely
• brake progressively on the straight before you reach a bend - having slowed down, steer smoothly round the bend, avoiding sudden actions
• check your grip on the road surface when there is snow or ice by choosing a safe place to brake gently - if the steering feels unresponsive this may indicate ice and your vehicle losing its grip on the road (when travelling on ice, tyres make virtually no noise)

Windy weather

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 cross winds, or when passing bridges or gaps in the hedges.

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.

Fog

234

Before entering fog check your mirrors then slow down. If the word ‘Fog’ is shown on a roadside signal or overhead gantry but the road is clear, be prepared for a bank of fog or drifting patchy fog ahead. Even if it seems to be clearing, you can suddenly find yourself in thick fog.

235

When driving in fog you should:

• use your lights as required (see rule 226)
• keep a safe distance behind the vehicle in front - rear lights can give a false sense of security
• be able to pull up well within the distance you can see clearly (this is particularly important on motorways and dual carriageways, as vehicles are travelling faster)
• use your windscreen wipers and demisters
• beware of other drivers not using headlights
• not accelerate to get away from a vehicle which is too close behind you
• check your mirrors before you slow down, then use your brakes so that your brake lights warn drivers behind you that you are slowing down
• stop in the correct position at a junction with limited visibility and listen for traffic
• when you are sure it is safe to emerge do so positively - and do not hesitate in a position that puts you directly in the path of approaching vehicles

236

You must not use front or rear fog lights unless visibility is seriously reduced (see Rules 226), as they dazzle other road users and can obscure your brake lights - you must switch them off when visibility improves.

Law RVLR regs 28 & 30

Hot weather

237
 

Keep your vehicle well ventilated to avoid drowsiness.

Be aware that the road surface may become soft or, if it rains after a dry spell, it may become slippery. These conditions could affect your steering and braking.

If you are dazzled by bright sunlight, slow down and if necessary stop.