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  Visit: Hazard perception test 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.

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The Highway Code - Latest edition

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

The Highway Code - Rules for level crossings

How to renewing the photo on your driving licence

If you're a short period licence holder (over 70 or medical short period) you'll only need to renew your photo when your driving entitlement expires.

Apply online:

You can apply to renew the photo on your driving licence using the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency's (DVLA) secure and easy to use online service.

Applying at a Post Office® branch with a renewal reminder D798:

You can apply to renew the photo on your driving licence at a selected Post Office®. If you have received a D798 renewal reminder form, you will be notified of the closest Post Office® branches to your address. For other participating Post Office® branches visit the Post Office® website or telephone the Post Office® Helpline on 0845 722 3344.

You will need:

• The photo renewal form D798
• Both the photocard and counterpart of your licence if you have them
• The fee of £20.00

There will be a fee of £4.50 in addition to the renewal fee for using the Post Office® service.

The Post Office® will capture your photo, signature and details from your application form and will electronically and securely send it to DVLA to issue a new licence. Your driving licence should arrive within three weeks. It might take longer if DVLA have to check your medical or personal details.


Applying at a Post Office® branch without a renewal reminder:

If, for any reason, you don't receive your renewal reminder you may still be able to renew your photo at selected Post Offices®. You will need to have both the photocard and counterpart of your current licence. Alternatively, if you do not wish to apply online or at a selected Post Office®, you will need to complete the 'application for a driving licence' (D1) form. This is available from the DVLA form ordering service, and Post Office® branches. You can check the expiry date of your photo in section 4b on the front of your driving licence.

For short term licences and over 70s, you will be prompter by DVLA to renew your photograph and your entitlement to drive - see section 4b on your licence for the expiry date of your entitlement.

Applying by post you'll need to:

• fill in the photo renewal form D798
• include a new passport type photo of yourself that's been taken within the last month - you don't need the back of the photo signed
• return both the photocard and counterpart of your licence - if you have lost one or both parts you can still use this application but will need to tick the relevant box in part one of the D798
• enclose a cheque or postal order for £20.00 - no fee is needed if you have medical short period licence or you're aged 70 or over
• send your application and fee (if applicable) to DVLA, Swansea SA99 1DH

If you have changed your name, you'll also need to provide identity documents as proof.

Other types of DVLA reminders:

DVLA will also let you know if your photo is due to be renewed when it sends you a reminder to renew your entitlement to drive. A reminder will be sent when you are due to:

• renew after disqualification
• renew at age 70 or over
• renew your lorry or bus entitlement
• renew for medical reasons

When to expect your licence:

DVLA aims to send your new driving licence to you within three weeks of getting your application. It'll take longer if your health or personal details need to be checked. Allow at least three weeks for your driving licence to get to you before contacting DVLA.

When your licence is issued it'll have a number of added security features. One of the main differences is a laser engraved black and white photo.

Driving before your licence is returned:

You can drive before you get your licence as long as you:

• have held a Great Britain or Northern Ireland licence issued since 1 January 1976 or another exchangeable licence
• are not disqualified from driving
• haven't been refused a licence for medical reasons or for failing to comply with medical enquiries
• wouldn't be refused a licence for medical reasons - if in doubt, check with your doctor
• keep to any special conditions that apply to your licence

Source: Driving Standards Agency