Safety Margins - Weather Conditions Flashcards
2 SECOND RULE
When you are driving in good, dry conditions, you need to keep at least a two second gap between you and the vehicle in front. It helps to say…
‘Only a fool breaks the two second rule’
4 SECOND RULE
If you are driving in wet conditions
You should say it twice
‘Only a fool breaks the two second rule, Only a fool break the two second rule’
What should you do if the gap between you and the vehicle in front is filled
DROP BACK if another vehicle fills the gap between you and the vehicle in front
If it’s raining
Spray is everywhere and your vision of the road ahead is impaired
Turn on your dipped headlights and drop further back
AQUAPLANNING
Occurs when water builds up between your tyres and the road
You should ease off the accelerator and DO NOT brake
FORDS
An area of water that crosses the road, such as a stream
Select a low gear and drive slowly
After driving through, dry your brakes by lightly applying your brakes
What should you do before driving in snow
Before driving in snow, clear all snow and ice from your…
Mirrors
Windows
Lights
Number plates
Moving off in snow
Use the highest gear possible as this will decrease the chance of wheels spinning
When driving in snow…
Brake, accelerate and steer GENTLY
Stopping distance in snow
Stopping distances will increase by up to 10 times in icy weather conditions
Travel slowly and keep a good distance from the vehicle in front
Icy conditions
Your tyres will have less grip on the road
BLACK ICE is ice that cannot always be seen
If your steering becomes lighter and your tyres are not making much noise you may be driving on ICE
Approaching a sharp bend
Slow down
Don’t make any sharp movements
Look well ahead for any hazards
The most common cause of skidding is…
HUMAN ERROR!
Skids happen because vehicles travel too quickly for the conditions
Hot weather
Road surfaces can become soft which will affect the grip of your tires
Slow down and be aware that stopping distances will increase too
Fog
Always put your dipped headlights on as this will help you see, and be seen
If visibility is below 100 metres then you can turn on your fog lights
Wind
Wind is more likely to affect high sided vehicles, bicycles and motorcycles. Allow extra room when overtaking.
Crosswind sign…
shows a piece of material floating in the wind.
