Tuesday, April 26, 2011

The Highway Code - Driving in different weather conditions

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 25 & 27 


227) Wet weather.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.
      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 and 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 all your windows
you MUST ensure that lights are clean and number plates are clearly visible and legible
make sure the mirrors are clear and the windows are demisted thoroughly.
remove all snow that might fall off into the path of other road users
check your planned route is clear of delays and that no further snowfalls or severe weather are predicted.
Laws CUR reg 30 & RVLR reg 23, VERA Sect 43 & RV(DRM)R reg 11 

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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 use 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 actions
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
crosswinds, or when passing bridges or gaps in 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 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 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 Rule 226) as they dazzle other road users and can obscure
your brake lights. You MUST switch them off when visibility improves.
Law RVLR regs 25 & 27
237) Hot weather . 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.

Related Post:

The Highway Code - Latest edition

The Highway Code - Rules for Tramways( 300-307 )

The Highway Code - Rules for level crossings

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