Weather conditions significantly impact your safety margins. In case of inclement weather such as snow, ice, or thick fog, carefully evaluate the necessity of your journey. Never underestimate the associated dangers.
Before embarking on a journey in freezing weather, ensure to clear ice and snow from your windows, lights, mirrors, and number plates.
While driving:
- Utilize the highest gear possible.
- Brake gently and well in advance.
- Be prepared to stop and manually clear snow from your windscreen if the wipers are unable to keep it clear.
In foggy conditions, remember to:
- Allow extra time for your journey.
- Reduce your speed due to reduced visibility.
- Increase the distance between your vehicle and the one in front.
- Use dipped headlights even during the day. If visibility drops below 100 meters (328 feet), use fog lights if available, and remember to turn them off once the fog clears.
During wet conditions:
- Always maintain a safe separation distance, especially if another vehicle overtakes and moves in front of you.
- Be cautious of aquaplaning in heavy rain, where tires lose contact with the road surface. If this occurs:
- Ease off the accelerator.
- Avoid braking until steering feels normal again.
After driving through deep water:
- Test your brakes.
- If necessary, dry them out by lightly pressing the brake pedal as you continue.
During hot weather, be aware that:
- The road surface may become soft, reducing tire grip and affecting braking and steering.
In bright sunlight:
- Dazzling glare can hinder visibility, potentially making indicator lights difficult to see. Consider using arm signals in addition to indicators.
In high winds:
- Vehicles, particularly on open roads, may be blown off course.
- High-sided vehicles, motorcyclists, and cyclists are especially susceptible. When passing them, allow extra room and check your left side afterward as they may be affected by sudden gusts.