Windy days ahead

13 December 2011

With severe gales predicted this week, road safety charity the IAM is offering tips from Britain’s top advanced driver, Peter Rodger, for motorists to bear in mind during windy weather.

• Plan your journey – is there a route with less exposure to the weather and less risk of fallen trees?  Choose a sheltered route if you have the option.
• Strong winds are not constant, they are usually gusty so ensure you hold the steering wheel firmly.
• Overtaking high sided vehicles or driving past buildings can result in a sudden gust from the side as you clear.
• Give cyclists, motorcyclists, lorries and buses more room than usual.  They get blown around by side winds easily.
• Watch trees and bushes on the roadside - their branches show you how strong the wind is.  Look well ahead, that way you don’t need to take your eye off the road and you can see any windy patches before you get to them.
• Go slow enough to cope with the gusts.  Wind can get under a car and reduce its handling and braking significantly.
• Keep an eye on what is happening to other vehicles – where they are affected will give you a pre warning.
• Keep extra distance between you and the car in front.
• Be careful of debris, try and have space beside you in case you need to dodge it.

Rodger said: “I have seen a parked car moved by the wind.  Don’t underestimate how powerful it is and how it can affect you whilst in the car.”

To help drivers stay safe this winter, the IAM has launched a new website, drivingadvice.org.uk, with traffic updates, weather forecasts and tips on how to drive safely in winter.

Tips cover rain, snow, ice, fog and wind – everything you can expect in a typically unpredictable British winter. Check it out before you travel.

ENDS

Notes to editors:

1. www.drivingadvice.org.uk.
2. Peter Rodger is the IAM’s chief examiner
3. The IAM is the UK’s largest independent road safety charity, dedicated to improving standards and safety in driving, motorcycling and cycling. The commercial division of the IAM operates through its occupational driver training company IAM Drive & Survive. The IAM has more than 200 local volunteer groups and over 100,000 members in the UK and Ireland. It is best known for the advanced driving test and the advanced driving, motorcycling and cycling courses. Its policy and research division offers advice and expertise on road safety.
   

ENDS ALL

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