Driving in Rain, Fog and Snow: Bad Weather Driving Tips

In bad weather, slow down and leave much more space: The Highway Code says stopping distances at least double in the wet and can be up to ten times longer on ice and snow. Use dipped headlights when visibility is reduced, fog lights only when you can see 100 metres or less, brake, steer and accelerate gently, and avoid non-essential journeys in snow and ice.

Here's how to handle each type of weather, with the relevant Highway Code rules.

Before you set off in bad weather

• Check the forecast and traffic and decide whether the journey is essential.
• Check your tyres: pressure and tread. The legal minimum for cars is 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tread, but more tread grips much better in the wet. See car maintenance basics.
• Top up screenwash and check wipers and lights.
• Clear all windows, mirrors and lights completely of snow, ice and condensation before driving (rule 229).

Driving in rain

Highway Code rule 227:

• Stopping distances are at least double in the wet. Leave at least a four-second gap.
• Use dipped headlights if visibility is reduced.
• Watch for spray from large vehicles, which can make it hard to see.
• Steering feels light? You may be aquaplaning. Ease off the accelerator gently and slow down.
• Take extra care around vulnerable road users, who may be harder to see.
• Drive slowly through standing water and test your brakes gently afterwards.

How to handle aquaplaning

1. Don't brake hard or steer sharply.
2. Ease off the accelerator smoothly.
3. Hold the steering wheel straight and steady.
4. Wait for the tyres to regain grip.

Driving in fog

Rules 234 to 236:

• Check your mirrors and slow down before you enter fog, even if it seems to be clearing.
• Use dipped headlights. If visibility is seriously reduced (generally 100 metres or less), you can use front or rear fog lights, but switch them off when it improves.
• Don't hang on to the tail lights in front. They give a false sense of security. Keep a safe gap.
• Drive at a speed that lets you stop within the distance you can see.
• Use wipers and demisters.
• At junctions with limited visibility, stop in the correct position and listen for traffic, then emerge positively once you're sure it's safe.

Driving in snow and ice

Rules 228 to 231:

• Avoid driving unless it's essential.
• Carry an emergency kit: ice scraper, de-icer, warm clothes, food and a drink, plus useful extras such as a torch, a charged phone and a shovel in heavy snow.
• Stopping distances can be up to ten times longer. Leave a huge gap.
• Drive slowly in as high a gear as possible, and accelerate and brake very gently (rule 231). Many instructors suggest moving off in second gear in a manual to reduce wheelspin; check your car's handbook.
• Brake gently and early, and avoid sudden steering.
• Listen and feel: if your steering suddenly feels light or tyre noise drops, you may be on ice.
• Watch for gritters and snowploughs, and don't overtake them unless the road ahead is clear.

If you skid

1. Ease off the accelerator and don't brake harshly.
2. Steer smoothly in the direction you want to go.
3. Look where you want the car to go, not at what you're trying to avoid.

Driving in strong wind

Rules 232 and 233:

• Expect sudden gusts on exposed roads, bridges and gaps between buildings or hedges.
• Give cyclists, motorcyclists and high-sided vehicles more room, as they can be blown off course.
• Keep both hands on the wheel and slow down.

Driving in hot weather and bright sun

Rule 237: keep the car well ventilated to avoid drowsiness, watch for soft road surfaces, and be careful when it first rains after a dry spell, as roads can be slippery. Slow down or stop if dazzled by low sun; keep sunglasses in the car.

Summary

Bad weather calls for one simple rule: more space, less speed and gentle control. Double your gap in rain, multiply it hugely on ice, use the right lights for the visibility and avoid unnecessary journeys in snow. Combine this with night driving tips, a solid understanding of stopping distances and the habits in defensive driving.

Learn new-driver skills with Co-Drive

Co-Drive is an iOS app with new-driver lessons covering snow and ice and tunnels, plus car maintenance reminders so your tyres, wipers and lights are ready for winter. It isn't a substitute for professional training. Find out more.