Be Prepared For Driving In April Showers

As the famous rhyme goes, “April showers brings May flowers.” Well, it also brings dangerous driving conditions too.

As we know all too well, the transition from winter to spring brings an onset of April showers that at times can be torrential without notice. Here at Geoffrey Miller we want to ensure you are prepared for them and that you drive safely.

If you follow our top tips for driving in the rain you will be more than prepared to keep you and your family safe this spring:

• Although the days are getting longer and the days are getting lighter, make sure that you put on your headlights. We suggest that whenever you need to use your wipers you should also use your lights. Rain drops on the windscreen reduce your vision and so it is important that your vehicle is as noticeable as it can be to other road users.
• With damp comes steam – ensure that your heating controls are on your windscreen to prevent sudden fogging up whilst driving. We do not want you to be fiddling with your controls whilst driving, especially in poor weather. Not only will you not be able to see clearly, you won’t be in proper control of your vehicle either.
• Turn off your cruise control – we advise you not to use cruise control in bad weather to ensure that you are in proper control of your own speed. Wet roads automatically affect your tyre traction and stopping distances increase.
• Along with rain usually comes wind – keep your hands firmly on the steering wheel to ensure you have proper control over your vehicle in the event that the wind takes you by surprise. Strong winds can move your vehicle without notice and you must be prepared to take evasive action if your vehicle or another vehicle is hit by the wind.
• Check your tyre tread and ensure they are fully inflated. Before you set off on any long journey ensure that your tyres are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommendation and your tyre tread is legal. Please visit our Tyre safety blog for more information.