226) | You MUST use headlights when visibility is seriously reduced, generally
when you cannot see for more than 100 metres (328 feet). You may also
use front or rear fog lights but you MUST switch them off when visibility
improves (see Rule 236). Law RVLR regs 25 & 27
More details Visit: British road signs
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227) | Wet weather.In wet weather, stopping distances will be at least double
those required for stopping on dry roads (see Rule 126). This is because
your tyres have less grip on the road. In wet weather
| you should keep well back from the vehicle in front. This will
increase your ability to see and plan ahead |
| if the steering becomes unresponsive, it probably means that
water is preventing the tyres from gripping the road. Ease off
the accelerator and slow down gradually |
| the rain and spray from vehicles may make it difficult to see and
be seen. |
| be aware of the dangers of spilt diesel that will make the surface very
slippery (see ‘Vehicle maintenance, safety and security') |
| take extra care around pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and horse
riders. |
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Icy and snowy weather |
228) | In winter check the local weather forecast for warnings of icy or snowy
weather. DO NOT drive in these conditions unless your journey is
essential. If it is, take great care and allow more time for your journey.
Take an emergency kit of de-icer and ice scraper, torch, warm clothing
and boots, first aid kit, jump leads and a shovel, together with a warm
drink and emergency food in case you get stuck or your vehicle breaks
down. |
229) |
Before you set off
| you MUST be able to see, so clear all snow and ice from all your windows |
| you MUST ensure that lights are clean and number plates are clearly visible and legible |
| make sure the mirrors are clear and the windows are demisted thoroughly. |
| remove all snow that might fall off into the path of other road users |
| check your planned route is clear of delays and that no further snowfalls or severe weather are predicted. |
Laws CUR reg 30 & RVLR reg 23, VERA Sect 43 & RV(DRM)R reg 11
More information visit: Highway code book
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230) | When driving in icy or snowy weather
| drive with care, even if the roads have been treated |
| keep well back from the road user in front as stopping distances
can be ten times greater than on dry roads |
| take care when overtaking vehicles spreading salt or other de-icer,
particularly if you are riding a motorcycle or cycle |
| watch out for snowploughs which may throw out snow on either
side. Do not overtake them unless the lane you intend to use has
been cleared |
| be prepared for the road conditions to change over relatively short
distances. |
| listen to travel bulletins and take note of variable message signs that
may provide information about weather, road and traffic conditions
ahead. |
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231) | Drive extremely carefully when the roads are icy. Avoid sudden actions
as these could cause loss of control. You should
| drive at a slow speed in as high a gear as possible; accelerate and
brake very gently |
| drive particularly slowly on bends where loss of control is more
likely. Brake progressively on the straight before you reach a bend.
Having slowed down, steer smoothly round the bend, avoiding
sudden actions |
| check your grip on the road surface when there is snow or ice by
choosing a safe place to brake gently. If the steering feels
unresponsive this may indicate ice and your vehicle losing
its grip on the road. When travelling on ice, tyres make
virtually no noise |
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Windy weather |
232) | High-sided vehicles are most affected by windy weather, but strong
gusts can also blow a car, cyclist, motorcyclist or horse rider off course.
This can happen on open stretches of road exposed to strong
crosswinds, or when passing bridges or gaps in hedges. |
233) | In very windy weather your vehicle may be affected by turbulence
created by large vehicles. Motorcyclists are particularly affected, so
keep well back from them when they are overtaking a high-sided vehicle.
Visit: Highway code road signs |
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Fog |
234) | Before entering fog check your mirrors then slow down. If the word ‘Fog’
is shown on a roadside signal but the road is clear, be prepared for a
bank of fog or drifting patchy fog ahead. Even if it seems to be clearing,
you can suddenly find yourself in thick fog. |
235) | When driving in fog you should
| use your lights as required (see Rule 226) |
| keep a safe distance behind the vehicle in front. Rear lights can give
a false sense of security |
| be able to pull up within the distance you can see clearly. This is
particularly important on motorways and dual carriageways, as
vehicles are travelling faster |
| use your windscreen wipers and demisters |
| beware of other drivers not using headlights |
| not accelerate to get away from a vehicle which is too close behind
you |
| check your mirrors before you slow down. Then use your brakes so
that your brake lights warn drivers behind you that you are slowing
down |
| stop in the correct position at a junction with limited visibility and
listen for traffic. When you are sure it is safe to emerge, do so
positively and do not hesitate in a position that puts you directly
in the path of approaching vehicles. |
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236) | You MUST NOT use front or rear fog lights unless visibility is seriously
reduced (see Rule 226) as they dazzle other road users and can obscure
your brake lights. You MUST switch them off when visibility improves.
Law RVLR regs 25 & 27 |
237 | Hot weather . Keep your vehicle well ventilated to avoid drowsiness. Be
aware that the road surface may become soft or if it rains after a dry spell
it may become slippery. These conditions could affect your steering and
braking. If you are dazzled by bright sunlight, slow down and if
necessary, stop. |
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