Tips for driving in rainy conditions in Middlesbrough

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Adverse weather in Middlesbrough and other Teesside areas can make driving treacherous. Intense rain, high winds and poor visibility require heightened vigilance and careful planning.

To help you drive safely, we’ve put together some essential tips for driving when it rains.

Preparing to drive in the rain

If possible, delay your journey to avoid driving in heavy rain. Rain showers, especially intense ones, often ease off as quickly as they begin.

If you must travel, ensure you carry out the following checks:

Inspect your tyre tread depth
Check your window wipers for proper function
·est your headlamps and break lights
Review local weather reports for updates
Ensure your windscreen washer fluid is topped up
Make sure your mobile phone is fully charged in case of emergencies
Bring appropriate clothing which might include a warm, water proof and high-visibility clothing

Some areas in Teesside are prone to flooding. The Government offers a service which tells you the risk of flooding from rivers, the sea and groundwater. To use this service, visit GOV.UK: Check for flooding in Middlesbrough.

Follow best practices for wet weather driving

Your driving habits should adapt significantly when driving in wet conditions. Consider the rainfall, puddles, and the behaviour of other road users.

Stopping distances in the rain can double, so reduce your speed and increase the gap between you and the vehicle ahead.
Keep your headlights on to ensure you remain visible to others.
Exercise extra caution around HGVs, as they may create spray that reduces visibility.
Manage the interior temperature to prevent condensation.
Adjust your windscreen wipers to the speed that provides the clearest view.
Be mindful that pedestrians may act unpredictably when caught in the rain.
Ensure your tyres are properly inflated to maintain optimal traction on wet surfaces.

We recommend that all drivers consult The High Way Code regularly. You can read what it says about driving in the rain at The High Way Code: Wet weather.

Beware of aquaplaning

Aquaplaning occurs when a layer of water separates the tyre surface from the road. This can happen during heavy rain, particularly if you increase your speed or if the water on the road deepens.

You can help avoid aquaplaning by reducing your speed, which you should always do in wet conditions.

You will know your vehicle is aquaplaning if you feel a sudden loss of control, with the steering becoming light or unresponsive. If this happens, do the following:

Keep the steering wheel straight; avoid turning it.
Allow the vehicle to pass through the puddle.
Gradually reduce speed until your car regains traction.

Breaking down in wet conditions

Careful driving and thorough preparation are essential when driving in the rain, but breakdowns can still occur.

If you break down in heavy rain, avoid opening the bonnet to protect your vehicle’s electrical system.
Rain is often accompanied by cold winds, so bring warm clothing with you in case of a breakdown.
Should your vehicle break down in deep water, switch on your hazard lights and call for assistance; restarting the engine could cause serious damage.
If visibility is poor due to rain and you’re on a busy road or motorway, stay in your vehicle unless it’s absolutely safe to exit.

Road traffic accidents in rainy conditions

Despite how we might prepare and how well we drive, sometimes accidents happen.

If you find yourself in an accident while driving in rainy conditions, try to remain calm and handle it as you would in normal driving conditions, with only slight adjustments.

If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic, such as the hard shoulder or a nearby layby. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
Assess yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call emergency services immediately.
If the weather conditions or traffic make it dangerous to exit the vehicle, remain inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.
Contact the police to report the accident, especially if there is significant damage or injuries. Additionally, call for roadside assistance if your vehicle is undrivable.
Exchange details with the other parties involved, including names, addresses, insurance information and vehicle registration numbers.
If it’s safe and feasible, take photographs of the accident scene, the damage to all vehicles involved and any relevant road conditions, such as standing water or skid marks.
Refrain from discussing who was at fault at the scene of the accident. Stick to exchanging necessary details and allow your insurance companies and/or solicitors to handle the investigation.
Even if you feel fine, consider seeing your GP after the accident. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not be immediately apparent.
If the accident was not your fault, contact a solicitor for advice on your post-collision options.

Askews Solicitors, based in Middlesbrough & Redcar, are road traffic accident claims specialists

If you had an accident in rain, hail or shine, we are here to help.

This content is for informational purposes and is not intended as advice of any kind.