I’m a motors expert – my six tips for driving during Storm Agnes… as rain and wind set to batter UK
AN EXPERT has told motorists how they can stay safe when driving during Storm Agnes.
Brits are bracing themselves for winds of up to 80mph which could unleash "flying debris", power cuts and monster waves, The Met Office has warned.
The powerful storm mean that drivers will be battling all the elements when they get behind the wheel, but the have issued a shortlist of precautions.
Leaves on Roadways
Leaves on the ground are an indicator that autumn has arrived, but they can also hide some potentially fatal banana skins.
Dominic Wyatt, an expert from the , warns: "Wet leaves on the road can be as slippery as ice.
"They obscure pavement markings and hide potholes and other road irregularities."
read more in motors
Fog
Autumn fog can be a nightmare for a driver's visibility, and can give the illusion of speed for drivers.
"In foggy conditions, slow down and use low beam headlights," Wyatt says.
"Your high beams will only bounce off the fog and create glare, reducing your visibility even further."
Shorter days
As the days begin to get darker a lot quicker, it's more likely that pedestrians and other drivers will be whizzing around on dark streets.
Most read in Motors
Dominic urges motorists to "clean windshields, inside and out", while also being sure to "replace worn windshield wipers" for optimal visibility.
Wet Roads
Rain is a more frequent fixture during the biting fall and winter months.
To avoid falling prey to wet, slippery roads, it's important that you give the vehicle in front of you enough space, slow down and try to avoid sudden braking or steering.
Beware of deers
Autumn is deer breeding season, which means there are more of them in the run up to Christmas.
Dominic continued: "Be vigilant, particularly at dawn and dusk, and where deer crossing signs are posted.
"If a deer does enter the road, brake firmly but avoid swerving, as you could lose control of your vehicle."
Back to school traffic
After the long summer break, autumn sees a surge in traffic with the back-to-school rush.
Keep this in mind and factor in extra travel time during your commute or consider adjusting your travel times, if possible, to avoid peak times.
Tips for drivers during Storm Agnes
Slow down and avoid sudden braking or steering on wet roads or when driving on streets covered with leaves.
Use low beam headlights in foggy conditions and ensure your windshields are clean for better visibility.
Allow extra travel time to accommodate back-to-school traffic and be extra cautious during dawn and dusk.
Watch out for deer crossings and if a deer enters the road, brake firmly without swerving.