Take care in bad weather, drivers warned (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Take care on the roads in bad weather

4:14pm Friday 21st December 2012 in Cotswolds news By Ian Craig

WITH heavy rain forecast this weekend, drivers are reminded to take care on the roads.

The Met Office is predicting heavy rain on Sunday which may cause flooding and surface water across Gloucestershire’s roads.

Gloucestershire police Sergeant Kevin Roseblade said drivers should think carefully about braking distances when roads are wet.

“Don’t forget that braking distances can more than double on wet road surfaces, so keep your speed steady and slow and keep plenty of space between you and the car in front,” he said.

“I’d also suggest that in poor weather you allow extra time to complete your journey. Rushing to reach your destination, especially in poor weather conditions, can increase stress and the potential for a collision.”

Other tips for drivers in bad weather include:

• Use your brakes cautiously. Abrupt braking can cause brake lock-up and cause you to lose steering control.

• To make Antilock Brakes work correctly, apply constant, firm pressure to the pedal. During an emergency stop, push the brake pedal all the way to the floor, if necessary, even in wet conditions.

• Don’t make sudden changes in steering as this increases the potential for loss of control.

For updates on road closures visit highways.gov.uk/traffic-information/