Storm Franklin – Seven things you should do when driving in a storm as Franklin batters Britain
AS the UK continues to be battered by stormy conditions, it is important motorists take steps to drive safely.
Brits were today urged not to travel during Storm Franklin as more than 400 homes were evacuated.
A tornado warning is also in place for the third storm in five days.
It comes after Storm Eunice battered Britain with 122mph winds on Friday.
But if you do need to drive, RED Driving School’s Ian Fido has given these top tips.
Plan route and don’t rush
Allow plenty of time for your journey and make sure your car engine is warmed up before you embark.
De-ice the vehicle thoroughly and make sure visibility is clear through all windows.
Check for closures due to the extreme weather before setting off.
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Reduce speed and increase space between cars
Reducing speed and increased the gap between yours and other vehicles, there will be more time to react to unpredictable situations.
Give more space to motorcyclists and cyclists who are more vulnerable to gusts of wind.
Also be wary of high-sided vehicles on high-speed roads.
Avoid smaller roads
Use main roads if possible. They are better lit, allowing for more visibility of any fallen branches or debris.
They are also less likely to be blocked by fallen trees.
Be aware of gaps between buildings and trees
Gaps in buildings and trees can leave cars vulnerable to unexpected gusts of wind from different directions.
Be aware of your surroundings. Prepare when approaching these gaps and leave plenty of room between yourself and other road users.
Hold onto doors
When getting in or out of the car, hold tightly onto doors to avoid them springing away or causing serious damage to a door’s hinges or hitting other cars and objects.
Invest in all season tyres
All season car tyres combine the best properties of summer and winter tyres to create an all-round performance tyre.
By investing in them early, you can avoid the hassle and cost of changing between summer and winter tyres.
They are recommended regardless of whether you live in a part of the country that’s especially prone to harsh weather.
Pack winter essentials
You never know when you might get stranded due to weather conditions. Be prepared.
Pack a torch, a blanket for warmth and portable charging for your device.
Your vehicle should always also carry a warning triangle in case of vehicle breakdown.