rain windscreen driving lessons norwich

Let’s be honest, when it rains it definitely pours in Norwich (and the rest of the UK!) so it will come as no surprise that sometimes your driving lessons will have to take place in the rain.

Whilst this can make learner drivers nervous, it is great practice for ‘real life’. The best advice we can offer is don’t panic, but if you need some further advice for driving safely when it starts raining like cats and dogs, then take a look at our following handy tips.

1) Plan ahead and don’t rush

Driving in heavy rain and flash flooding can be dangerous, and if you can’t avoid making the journey, then it pays to prepare.

Factor in extra time to accommodate slower driving and potential congestion, and don’t forget to check for any reported delays before leaving. The last thing you want to do in the rain is feel under pressure or the need to rush.

Also, make sure you have a mobile phone to use in emergencies – when you have pulled over to a safe place and your engine is switched off, of course!

2) Check your wipers

Rain decreases your visibility. It may sound obvious but make sure you know your wipers are up to scratch – both front and back. If they are not working as well as they should be, make sure you replace them before undertaking your next journey.

Also, make sure you know how to use them! Feel comfortable with switching them on and off – even if it is just to automatic! Know which speed you will need and when. Knowing everything is working how it should be will give you more confidence.

3) Fill up the tank

Getting stuck in congestion caused by the rainy conditions will mean that you will use more fuel.

Plus don’t forget, wipers, heater, and lights all use up more fuel too. The last thing you need is to run out in the rain. A full tank will give you peace of mind and increase your ability to keep safe.

4) Know your stopping distances

The rain makes the road wet meaning your ability to stop will be reduced by a factor of two. This means that the two-second rule that guides you in dry conditions will become the four-second rule in the wet.

Remember to reduce your speed and increase the distance between you and any vehicle in front to compensate.

5) Switch on the lights

Dark rain clouds mean lights need to be switched on. Think of it as if you turn on your wiper blades then you will need to turn on your dipped headlights.

It will improve your vision and mean other drivers see you in time. Overall, the lights will help keep you safe in bad weather conditions.

However, make sure you are using the right lights. Fog lights will dazzle other drivers if you do not need them. Dipped headlights are usually the way to go, unless visibility drops below 100m.

So until the rain goes away, stay safe!