Online driver profiling and e-driver training provider E-Training World has introduced a new training module specifically designed for adverse weather conditions.
The interactive module uses a combination of high-definition video footage and still images to demonstrate the potential impact of different weather conditions and educate drivers on how to adapt their driving style to reduce the risk of accidents and collisions.
Adverse weather conditions include rain, snow, ice, windy and foggy conditions, as well as bright sun and dark night situations – all of which create varying hazards.
For example, when driving in the rain, drivers should double the gap between themselves and the vehicle ahead to four seconds because tyres have less grip on the road.
When driving in snow or ice, stopping distances can be up to 10 times more than on a dry road, so even greater distance is required.
In windy conditions, high-sided vehicles will be particularly affected. Drivers of these vehicles must take action to deal with gusts, especially on open stretches of road exposed to strong crosswinds or when passing bridges or gaps in hedges. Other vehicle drivers must take greater care when passing high-sided vehicles, as both vehicles can be affected by changes in wind direction.
And while drivers might not consider bright sun to be an adverse weather condition, it can obscure vision, especially when driving by trees. It is vital to slow down and increase the gap between vehicles, as drivers can be blinded by the sun and take longer to react.
Finally, when driving after dark, any grease build-up on a windscreen and mirrors will increase light glare and distort driver vision. Keeping vehicles clean is vital to maximise visibility at all times.
Graham Hurdle, managing director at E-Training World, said: “Extreme weather conditions are becoming more frequent, and it is vital that companies equip their drivers with the skills needed in these challenging environments. Reduced visibility and slippery roads can increase the risk of accidents and collisions. By completing training specifically tailored to these risk factors, drivers can become safer on the road and have fewer collisions.”
The new module is the latest development from E-Training World, which is exhibiting at the 2024 Great British Fleet Event.
As well as serving some of the largest fleet operators in the UK, it provides branded/white-labelled systems to many of the best-known companies in the fleet sector. These include insurance companies, fleet management specialists, accident management providers, driver training businesses, vehicle rental specialists and other fleet sector suppliers.
