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Insurance experts have spoken out as wet weather can lead to mistakes
As relentless rain continues to threaten motorists across the country, experts have warned drivers about costly errors they might be making, including one concerning potholes.
Many motorists turn to social platforms seeking guidance on driving matters. Nevertheless, expert advice remains crucial, reports the Express.
With this in mind, car insurance professionals at Quotezone.co.uk are highlighting the hazards of wet weather motoring that could result in fines reaching up to £5,000. Wet conditions present multiple dangers for those on the road, from reduced visibility to waterlogged streets and the possibility of soaking pedestrians.
The insurance professionals also caution that should drivers opt to proceed despite inadequate visibility and a collision happens, their insurer might decline their claim.
Waterlogged roads can also hide potholes, and with more than 90 per cent of motorists admitting to steering around potholes to safeguard their vehicle, knowing the most secure approach to managing them is vital.
Greg Wilson, CEO and car insurance expert at Quotezone, said: “Rainy conditions dramatically increase the risk of costly driving errors, and motorists need to be aware of the safest ways to navigate these dangerous elements.
“Motorists could face hefty fines and penalty points for making common wet weather mistakes, including splashing pedestrians, driving on flooded roads and swerving to avoid potholes.
“Potholes are a key hazard to be aware of as the weather deteriorates. The battle against potholes can be felt around the country, and they are often worse after periods of rainy weather. Particularly wet weather can even disguise potholes, so they become even more of a danger to motorists.”
He added: “However, many drivers may be unaware that their attempts to avoid car damage from dangerous potholes could see them penalised, as swerving potholes could be viewed as driving without due care and attention.
“Slowing down, allowing at least twice the normal stopping distance from the car in front, waiting for conditions to improve, or avoiding non-essential journeys altogether, could help drivers protect their safety, their finances and other road users.”
Here are several ways motorists could face penalties whilst driving during wet weather:
Swerving potholes
Potholes typically deteriorate following rainfall. Approximately 93 per cent of drivers have admitted to swerving around potholes to avoid damage to their vehicles, yet those taking evasive action could actually face sanctions – with fines potentially reaching £2,500 if such behaviour is deemed driving without due care and attention.
Low visibility
Whilst driving in wet conditions, remain aware of spray from other vehicles which can reduce visibility in both directions. Dipped headlights are recommended during heavy rain to enhance your ability to see and be seen by others.
Furthermore, check that rainfall hasn’t caused condensation to cloud your windscreen, as drivers face fines and penalty points if their view ahead is impaired.
Flooded roads
Flooded roads pose significant risks to drivers, from losing control of the vehicle to breakdowns or substantial engine damage. Even water that appears shallow can conceal dangerous hazards like potholes, so motorists should reverse and find alternative routes when possible.
Most car insurance policies won’t cover damage caused by deliberately driving through floodwater.
Soaking pedestrians
When driving through areas with large puddles, it’s essential to think about other road users. Splashing through puddles and drenching pedestrians could result in a £100 fine and three penalty points.
However, in some cases, penalties can rise to as high as £5,000 for driving without reasonable consideration for other road users.
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