Drivers warned to 'carry out checks' as Storm Bert set to bring severe conditions

Drivers are being warned to take extra precautions on the roads as Storm Bert is set to wreak havoc. Snow, strong winds and heavy downpours are predicted for huge parts of the UK this weekend.

Scotland and northern England are expected to see the worst of the weather. But motorists across Britain have been told to avoid unnecessary journeys.

If you have to drive in the wintry weather, there are things you can do to keep yourself safe. Motoring experts at Quotezone.co.uk are urging drivers to make sure their cars are roadworthy for all weather conditions.

READ MORE: Storm Bert travel chaos as '40cm of snow predicted for UK'

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Greg Wilson, car insurance expert and CEO of Quotezone.co.uk said: "With heavy rainfall and strong winds expected across the country, we’re urging drivers to take a proactive approach to safety. Before getting behind the wheel it’s crucial to carry out a few checks to ensure your vehicle is in top condition.

"Checking tyre pressure, tread depth, lights, and wipers can make a significant difference in how your car handles adverse weather. Many motorists underestimate the impact of weather on driving conditions and failing to adapt your driving style to the conditions can have serious consequences.

"It’s important to reduce speed, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and be vigilant for potential hazards like flooding and debris. Drivers should also check what type of insurance they have - while most comprehensive car insurance policies cover storm damage, motorists who have taken out third-party only or third-party, fire and theft insurance won’t normally be covered.

"Also, drivers who actively drive through flood water are likely to invalidate their insurance and lose protection for any damage – given it was an avoidable situation, and the driver has a duty to safeguard the vehicle."

According to Quotezone, there are seven tips for driving in stormy weather:

Check your car is roadworthy

Before you set off in stormy conditions, it is important that you make sure your vehicle is fully prepared for the journey. Essential checks include ensuring the tyre tread depth meets the legal requirements and that the tyres are properly inflated to provide maximum traction on wet roads.

It is also important to make sure that all lights and wipers are working correctly, as visibility can be drastically reduced in heavy rain.

Reduce your speed

Quotezone said: "Drivers need to reduce speed to improve vehicle control and allow themselves time to react in unexpected situations such as sudden stops or fallen trees on the road. This is because the stopping distances double on wet roads due to the reduced grip that tyres have on the water."

Increase distances

You should leave a larger gap between your vehicle and the one in front of you to give yourself enough time to react if the car ahead stops suddenly. Aim for at least a four-second gap in wet conditions.

You should also consider increasing the gap even further during heavy rain or when visibility is limited.

Avoid flood areas

Quotezone said: "Flooded roads pose significant risks, including the possibility of losing control, stalling or damaging the engine. Even shallow water can conceal hazards like deep potholes or debris.

"Also, most car insurance policies won’t cover you for damage if you drive through flooded water."

Keep a strong grip on your steering wheel

Strong winds can make it difficult to maintain control of your vehicle - especially when you are driving through open areas where you are more exposed to side winds. Keeping a firm grip on the steering wheel helps you react quickly to unexpected gusts of wind.

Beware of aquaplaning

Quotezone said: "Aquaplaning occurs when water builds up between the tyres and the road, causing the vehicle to lose traction and making it difficult to steer and brake. If you feel the steering becomes lighter or the car begins to slide, ease off the accelerator, don’t brake and allow your car to slow down naturally."

Use your lights correctly

It is important to double check your lights are on in heavy rain or poor visibility. Dipped headlights allow other drivers to see you more easily.

They can be seen from a much greater distance than sidelights and they will not dazzle other drivers or pedestrians.