Driving in Wet Weather

Every year thousands of motorists get caught out by driving through flooded areas, not appreciating just how deep the water is until it is too late. With such extremes in weather predicted by many to become the norm, RAC is urging motorists to help themselves to avoid a breakdown and a costly repair by remembering a few simple tips:

• If you have a garage use it, a vehicle left out in the rain is more susceptible to damp related breakdowns.

When out on the road:

• Allow extra space between you and the vehicle in front. This extra space is not only needed because it takes longer to stop in the wet but also because the excess spray which larger vehicles - particularly lorries - create can get into the engine compartment and damage the electrics.
• Don't be misled that diesel vehicles are more robust than petrol vehicles in wet conditions. Modern day diesels also have electrical systems that can be damaged by water.

If your vehicle is flood damaged, depending on the level of water that has affected your vehicle, the following precautions should be taken:

• If the level of flooding has entered the passenger compartments (wet carpets) and the vehicle is fitted with an airbag, do not turn the ignition on. It is important to have the vehicle professionally examined (there is a risk of airbag deployment from water in the electrical system).
• If the vehicle is not fitted with airbags, there may still be a risk of electrical short circuit that can cause further damage to your vehicle. Again, do not turn on the ignition and have the vehicle professionally examined.
• For vehicles where flooding has not entered the passenger area (dry carpets) the braking system of your vehicle may have been affected.
• If your vehicle has been standing in the flooded area for any prolonged period contact your local dealer for further advice.
• If your vehicle has only been in a flood for a short period, drive with extreme caution and take the vehicle to be checked at the earliest opportunity.
• If your vehicle cuts out after driving through deep water, do not attempt to restart it as engine damage may occur, instead call for assistance and have the vehicle professionally examined.

Heavy rain brings many problems for motorists, roads can be closed and the routes that are still in use can be treacherous due to the wet conditions and debris. You should always drive within your capabilities and those of your vehicle.

If conditions get too hard to cope with and you get the chance to safely pull over, do so and phone your family and friends and let them know that you have stopped for a while.