Did You Know?

Did you know?

Below you will find some interesting driving related facts. We will be adding new facts so please come back to find out more.

Speed Limits

Remember that the speed limit is the maximum speed for the road you are travelling on - it doesn't mean you HAVE to drive at that speed. Sometimes there is confusion on the higher speed limits on dual carriage ways and motorways. The national speed limits are below. Some roads have a different speed limit to the national limits so please keep alert and drive to the speed indicated on the road you are travelling.

For more information on speed limits check out The High Way Code

CC_licence _Michael

Driving in snowy/Icy Conditions

When travelling in snowy and icy weather you need to prepare for your journey and take extra care when on the road.

Before you set off, remember to clear all the snow/ice off all your windows so you can see clearly. Make sure your lights and number plate are not obscured. Make sure your mirrors are clean and remove any snow from the roof that may fall when you’re driving.

Once you’re on the road, drive carefully, even on roads with have been treated and don’t look too bad. Keep back from other road users, stopping distances can be 10 times greater in snowy/icy weather compared to dry roads.

Keep your eye on the weather – it can change very quickly. Listen to the local weather reports and if the weather gets too bad be prepared to stop, go back if possible or even not start off in the first place.

For more advise on driving in snowy/icy conditions check out The Highway Code.

CC_licence_abbilder

Aquaplaning

When its wet, water lays on the road. Aquaplaning is when that water forms a wedge between your front tyres and the road. Aquaplaning is more likely if you have thin or worn tyres. When aquaplaning the car will not respond when you brake or steer - this can be very scary.

If you find yourself aquaplaning the safest thing to do is, remove pressure from the accelerator and allow the car to lose speed so that your tyres regain their grip. DO NOT turn the steering wheel while aquaplaning, because the car will lurch whichever way the wheels are pointing once the tyres regain grip.

CC_licence_Jaysin Trevino

Stopping Distances

When driving it's important to leave enough space between you and the vehicle in front to ensure you can stop in time without causing an accident. You should leave at least a 2 seconds gap - you can use a fixed point, such as a lamp post or sign post to help measure the gap. This gap should be doubled in wet weather and increased even further when the roads are icy.

Stopping distances change depending on your speed. The distances below are given as a guide, you need to take into consideration the following which will all make a difference to the actual stopping speed; your attention (thinking distance), the road surface, the weather conditions (see above) and the condition of your vehicle and tryes.

For more information on stopping distances - check out code 126 in your Highway Code.