As persistent rainfall continues to create challenging driving conditions nationwide, experts are warning motorists about expensive blunders they could be making – including one pothole-related mistake.
Many people take to social media to look for answers when it comes to driving advice. However, it's important to get expert advice. With that in mind, car insurance specialists at Quotezone.co.uk are alerting drivers to wet weather pitfalls that could land them with bills of up to £5,000. Wet conditions create numerous dangers for those behind the wheel, from poor visibility to waterlogged roads and the risk of drenching pedestrians. The insurance specialists also warn that should drivers opt to continue their journey despite poor visibility and an incident occurs, their insurer might decline their claim.
Flooded roads can also obscure potholes from view, and with more than nine out of 10 drivers confessing to swerving around potholes to protect their vehicle, understanding the safest way to handle them is essential.
Greg Wilson, CEO and car insurance expert at Quotezone said: "Rainy conditions dramatically increase the risk of costly driving errors, and motorists need to be aware of the safest ways to navigate these dangerous elements.
"Motorists could face hefty fines and penalty points for making common wet weather mistakes, including splashing pedestrians, driving on flooded roads and swerving to avoid potholes.
"Potholes are a key hazard to be aware of as the weather deteriorates. The battle against potholes can be felt around the country, and they are often worse after periods of rainy weather. Particularly wet weather can even disguise potholes, so they become even more of a danger to motorists."
He continued: "However, many drivers may be unaware that their attempts to avoid car damage from dangerous potholes could see them penalised, as swerving potholes could be viewed as driving without due care and attention.
"Slowing down, allowing at least twice the normal stopping distance from the car in front, waiting for conditions to improve, or avoiding non-essential journeys altogether, could help drivers protect their safety, their finances and other road users."
Below are some of the ways motorists could face penalties for driving in wet conditions:
Swerving potholes
Potholes tend to worsen following wet weather. Around 93% of drivers have confessed to swerving around a pothole to prevent damage to their vehicle, yet these motorists could actually face penalties for doing so - with fines reaching up to £2,500 if such manoeuvres are deemed as driving without due care and attention.
Low visibility
When motoring in wet conditions, be mindful of spray from surrounding vehicles which can reduce visibility both ways. Dipped headlights are advised during downpours to boost your ability to see and be seen.
Additionally, ensure the rain hasn't caused your windscreen to mist up, as motorists risk fines and penalty points if they haven't got a clear view of the carriageway.
Waterlogged roads
Waterlogged roads present serious dangers to motorists, with the risk of losing control, breaking down or even causing engine damage. Even seemingly shallow water can hide damaging obstacles such as potholes, so drivers should turn back and seek an alternative route wherever feasible.
Most car insurance policies are unlikely to cover any harm caused by knowingly driving through floodwater.
Drenching pedestrians
When travelling through areas with large puddles, it's essential to consider other road users. Driving through puddles and soaking other people could lead to a £100 fine and three penalty points.
Though in certain instances, fines can climb to as much as £5,000 for driving without reasonable consideration for others on the road.
