Driving in difficult conditions

Driving in difficult conditions covers weather and road states that reduce grip or visibility. Adjust speed, increase following distance, choose gentle inputs and plan ahead.

Key topics

• Rain: aquaplaning risk; see Aquaplaning
• Snow and ice: very low grip; see Snow chains
• Fog: see Driving in fog
• Wind: see Crosswind and gusts
• Flooded roads: see Flooded roads and driving through water

Preparation

• Check tyres, wipers and fluid levels
• Clean windows and lights for maximum visibility
• Plan the route and allow more time

Essentials while driving

• Reduce speed well below the limit when grip or sight is poor
• Increase time gap to at least 4 seconds; more in severe weather
• Use correct lights; avoid high beam in fog or heavy snow

Related

• Speed and distance
• Using lights and signals