IAM RoadSmart is advising drivers how they can help stay safe in a storm ahead of Storm Brendan’s arrival later today.
Sweeping in from the Atlantic, the storm is forecasted to bring travel disruption due to heavy rain and wind gusts of 70mph – with a resultant yellow weather warning for some parts of the UK from the Met Office.
The advice for drivers includes thinking twice about starting journeys and to take care if they’re already on the road, in particular when driving in strong winds, with IAM RoadSmart advising to take firm hold of the steering wheel and be mindful of vulnerable road users, such as motorcyclists, who will need more room than usual.
Drivers should also look for gaps between buildings (where wind can travel through and blow your car off course) and be careful when overtaking larger vehicles – in both instances gusts of wind might be particularly strong. Use movement of trees on the roadside as a guide to wind strength.
Other advice includes being wary of debris on roads and allowing enough space to drive around it if necessary, while driving at a steady speed will also ensure you give yourself more time to slow down before a hazard.
Richard Gladman, IAM RoadSmart head of driving and riding standards, said: “Keep an eye on the vehicles ahead of you – looking for clues as to how the wind may be affecting them will give you advanced warning of where the wind may be strongest.
He added: “Stormy weather can be extremely unpredictable – be prepared for the worst. And as always, avoid the journey where possible.”
