The last few years have seen a dramatic increase in storms and weather warnings all over the UK. And, according to the Met Office, 2023 was the seventh wettest year on record, with 113% of the average rainfall from 1991-2020 and a record-breaking seven named storms.
But regardless of weather, over 67% of road collisions in the UK are the result of human error - driving too fast for the conditions or not taking enough care to look around you.
So, as we brace ourselves for more storms, flooding and high winds, we've put together our top tips on protecting your car, and yourself, from the most common dangers.
Storms and high winds
If there’s a weather warning for high winds in your area, think about where to park your car. If you can, your best bet is to move it inside a garage or somewhere undercover. But if you don’t have that option, try to avoid parking near any trees or unstable buildings.
Remove your roof box and fasten anything that’s attached to your car, such as a trailer or bike rack. Anything that isn’t secure could come loose and cause damage.
Driving in strong winds
If you can’t delay your journey or you’re already on the road when it gets windy, make sure you keep a safe distance away from other cars to avoid being blown into them by a sudden gust.
Be aware of gaps between large vehicles on the road as well as buildings, as you could be blown off course by side winds. Keep your speed down so you have more time to react if something unexpected happens.
Turn off the radio and keep your full attention on what’s going on around you. Flying debris from trees or other vehicles can cause accidents as other drivers swerve to avoid them. Keep both hands on the steering wheel, too, so you have full control of your car.
Once you arrive home, wait for the wind to calm down a little before getting out of your car and take care when you open the door.
Heavy rain and flooding
It’s much harder to see and be seen when it’s pouring down. So it’s no surprise that nine out of ten weather-related deaths and serious injuries on UK roads take place in the rain. If you can, avoid going out in your car when it’s raining heavily – it’s much safer to stay put and wait for things to improve.
However, if you have no choice but to head out in the rain, it’s best to be prepared. Visibility will be seriously reduced, so make good use of your windscreen wipers. Your wing mirrors and side windows are likely to show a distorted view, so take your time at junctions to check all around you.
Open a window briefly if you can’t see out of it – it’ll help you get your bearings before moving off.
Reduce your speed so you have a chance to respond to unforeseen hazards. Plus, spray from other cars can block your view. Make sure there’s at least four seconds between you and the car in front, to give yourself a sensible stopping distance.
Remember, if it’s tricky for you to see, other drivers will be struggling, too, so give each other lots of space.
Heavy rain often means surface water on the roads, which is not only slippery, but can also lead to aquaplaning. If your car starts to skid, release the brake and re-apply it gently to try to regain control. Of course, it’s best to avoid flooded roads, so try to stick to main routes wherever you can.
If all routes are flooded, find somewhere safe to park up away from flood water. Your car can float away in just 30cm of water, so it’s never worth taking the risk, even if the water looks shallow.
Protect your car from flooding
Flood water will severely damage your engine, so stay away at all costs.
It’s best not to attempt to drive through floodwater as it can be hard to tell how deep it is. Plus, the air intake on most vehicles is behind the front wheel and about 8 inches off the ground - so it’s easier to drown an engine than you may think.
If you’re staying home to wait it out, try to park your car away from rivers or low-lying areas. Debris from trees can fall and damage your car, so always check before leaving it.
Freezing temperatures
Like all severe weather scenarios, don’t drive in snow and ice unless you absolutely have to. Plan your route in advance, give yourself plenty of time and stick to main roads that are more likely to be gritted.
Don’t go anywhere until you’ve checked your wipers, fluid levels and battery. Freezing temperatures can take its toll on your battery, making it harder to start and more likely to cut out. Take a look at our tips on driving in ice and snow.
And don’t be tempted to leave your car defrosting on the drive while you retreat to the warmth of indoors. Your insurance is unlikely to cover you if your car is stolen while left unattended with the doors unlocked and engine running, so don’t risk it.
When you are ready to set off, wrap up warm and take food and drink with you, in case you get stuck. Plus, it’s useful to have a torch, scraper and some de-icer with you as well.
Driving in ice and snow
To prepare your car for winter, you may want to consider switching to winter tyres, as these will help your car grip the road.
And, when temperatures drop, remember to drop your speed. Even on a bright, sunny winter’s day, black ice can unexpectedly send your car off the road. Stopping distances will increase dramatically, so it’s important to leave as much space between your car and any others on the road.
Drive slowly and steadily as sudden, jerky movements can cause skidding. Take your time going around corners and at junctions.
If you’re not planning to travel, look after your car at home either by parking in the garage or under cover somewhere safe. This should prevent ice from forming and save you from a flat battery. Heavy snowfall can weigh heavy on tree branches, so park away from them if you can.
What about my EV?
If you drive an electric vehicle, there are a few extra things you’ll need to consider:
- Your battery may not last as long in cold temperatures. Your range may be reduced, and it could take longer to charge – so be sure to factor these considerations in when planning a long journey.
- In-car heating can drain the battery even further, so layer up and use heated seats to keep warm as these use less energy.
- Many EVs have features such as pre-conditioning (that can be used to warm the interior of the car while it’s still on charge) and stability control (to help when driving on slippery surfaces). Take time to get to know your car and what it can do.
- Lastly, take extra care when accelerating. Many EVs have a quicker acceleration time from standing than non-electric vehicles, but this can be hazardous in winter. See if your car has an Eco setting, which can reduce power, and remember to take things nice and gently when you set off.
But sometimes, no matter how prepared you are, extreme weather can damage your car. Make sure you’ve got the right insurance in place, should the worst happen.
