Heavy rain

Reduce your speed. Stopping distances can extend to double the normal on wet roads. Use headlights if visibility is reduced.

• Be aware that roads can be slippery during the first rains after a dry spell.

• In the event of a breakdown in the rain, don’t open the bonnet because you will get the electrics wet and it will make it more difficult to restart the engine.

• Be aware of vehicles around you. High winds are more problematic for drivers of trucks, buses, campers and drivers who are towing trailers.

• Reduce your speed and correct your steering, especially when moving from a protected area to an unprotected area, or when meeting large vehicles.

Floods

• Don’t drive in water if you don’t know how deep it is or if it is flowing quickly.

• Drive slowly to avoid creating waves. Keep the engine revving by slipping the clutch, otherwise water in the exhaust could stall the engine.

• Driving fast through water is dangerous, even if it is standing water. It is inconsiderate to pedestrians, cyclists or drivers on motorbikes.

• It can cause expensive damage if water is sucked into the engine. Don’t think that just because you have a diesel engine this might not happen to you.

• Even if the water appears shallow enough to cross, don’t try it. Water hides dips and potholes in the road. Worse yet, there may be no road at all under the water. Flooding can scour away the entire road surface and also a significant amount of ground beneath.

• Flash floods can come rapidly and unexpectedly. They can occur within a few minutes or hours of excessive rainfall. Be especially cautious during the months September to February.

• Do not drive unless absolutely necessary.

• Do not drive through flooded areas. If you see a flooded-out road ahead, turn around. Find another route to your destination.

• If there is no other route, get to higher ground and wait for the waters to subside.

• If your car stalls, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground.

• Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control or possible stalling.

• One foot of water is enough to almost float many vehicles.

• Two feet of rushing water can sweep away most vehicles – including SUVs and pick-ups.

Heavy wind

• Wind is often accompanied by heavy rain. Stay alert for slippery areas.

• Drive at a low speed and be careful especially when driving on country roads. There could be a fallen wall or tree around a corner.

• Expect sudden gusts at any time, especially on open roads or when overtaking high-sided vehicles.

• Keep your distance from other vehicles – they could be blown into your way.

• Keep a look-out for objects that can be blown onto the road, such as bags and boxes. These can obstruct your vision or get caught in wheels. Drive slowly and take careful evasive action as needed.

Hot weather

• Roads are generally quieter early in the morning or later in the evening.

• Keep the keys safe and dry on the beach. Salt from sea water can ruin electrical circuits and keys are easily lost in the sand.

Mist or fog

• Only drive as fast as conditions allow and maintain a greater distance between you and the car in front. Follow a three-second rule, as a minimum.

• Use headlights when visibility is seriously reduced, when you can’t see the length of a football pitch.

• If your vehicle has fog lights, they must be used too. Remember to switch them off when visibility improves.