I’m a driving expert – how 20p piece can keep you safe while driving in the rain

A DRIVING expert has revealed how a 20p piece can keep you safe while driving in wet weather.

The UK has been hit with downpours recently and more rain is expected in the coming days.

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Rain makes driving more difficult, creating poor visibility as well as slippery roads and curb-side collections of water which can increase the likelihood of aquaplaning and an accident.

The experts at Prestone, the car maintenance fluid specialists said: “Whatever speed you’re travelling, aquaplaning is bad news.

“This is when standing water gets trapped between your tyre and the road surface, with the tread unable to displace it fast enough and ultimately resulting in a terrifying loss of traction.”

While aquaplaning can’t be avoided completely, the experts have revealed the tips which can reduce the chances.

Check the tread depth of your tyres regularly

Worn tyres can increase the likelihood of aquaplaning but their tread can be easily checked with just a 20p coin.

Simply place the coin in the tyre tread and make sure the tyre covers the outer band of the coin.

If it doesn’t, you may need to get it replaced for a new one.

Steady up

It’s common sense to slow down when you’re driving on a very wet road.

There’s good reasons for doing this as firstly it will give you greater stopping time and it will also reduce the likelihood of aquaplaning.

Don’t slam on the brakes

If your car does start to aquaplane then don’t slam the brakes on.

Instead, gently lift your foot off the accelerator and keep a firm grip on the steering wheel until your car regains traction.

Follow ‘tracks’ in the road

If you are in a line of cars, try to drive in their tramlines.

The cars ahead will have already displaced standing water ahead of you, making it less likely you’ll hit pools of water yourself and so bring down the risk of aquaplaning.

Avoid puddles where you can

It’s best to avoid puddles, where possible, although drivers are warned they should never swerve dangerously.

Even the smallest pools of water can cause aquaplaning so reduce your speed to anticipate and avoid puddles where you can.

Drivers in April were warned they could face a fine of up to £5,000 for driving in the rain.

Motorists were also warned in January that stopping distances are at least doubled in wet weather.

On the topic of wet conditions, rule 121 of the Highway Code says that drivers should test their brakes after driving through puddles or standing water.   

This is because water can hinder the effectiveness of your brakes, so it’s always worth checking that they’re working properly.

If they’re not, apply light pressure to the pedal as you drive slowly to dry out your brakes. 

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