Advice for driving in ‘first rain’

Car

Drivers in the North West are being warned to be aware of ‘First Rain’ as showers sweep the country following the recent hot weather.

‘First Rain’ , the phrase given to the first downpour following a period of hot, dry weather, is particularly dangerous for drivers as it causes oil and lubricant to be forced to the surface increasing the chances of skids and spins. Poorly inflated or over-warn tyres significantly increase the risk of running into trouble.

Andy Dingley, Communications Manager for Bridgestone UK, said: “While we are all aware of how to drive in persistent rain, many motorists remain oblivious to the added dangers of driving directly after a substantial downpour, especially if it is the first rain for a considerable period of time.

“As cars drive along in the dry they leave behind a small residue of greasy substances which accumulate on the road until rains wash them away.

“The first burst of rain can bring these to the surface and markedly reduce tyre traction. If your tyres haven’t been inflated for a while, or they are too worn, you are much more likely to have an accident.”

Drivers in the North West can maximize their chances of avoiding the problems associated with First Rain by undertaking following three simple rules:

• Use a 20p to check your tyres before you set off. Ensure that your tread depth is of a safe and legal standard – no less than 1.6mm. Visually check your tyres for cuts, lumps and bulges, and make sure your tyre pressure is at the level specified by the vehicle manufacturer to ensure that the tyre is offering optimum wet weather performance.
• Travel at a steady speed: Always keep to the speed limit and maintain a safe distance between you and the car in front, approximately twice the usual dry distance is advisable as stopping distances in the wet are doubled.
• Ensure your passengers are wearing a seatbelt: It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure the safety of passengers - so make sure they buckle up.

The 20p test:Simply place a 20p coin into the main tread groove of each tyre to see if the outer rim of the coin is covered by the tread. Repeat this across the width of the tyre and at several points around its circumference and if at any point you can see the rim of the coin when it is inserted, your tyre may be illegal and should be checked by a tyre specialist.