Car insurance experts are warning motorists about costly wet weather driving mistakes that could result in fines up to £2,500, including a pothole error.
Water-filled potholes in the road at a railway crossing in East Sussex, UK. (Image: David Michael Bellis via Getty Images)
As persistent rainfall continues to pose a threat to drivers nationwide, experts are warning motorists about expensive mistakes they could be making, including one related to potholes.
Many drivers turn to social media for advice on motoring issues. However, professional guidance remains essential.
With this in mind, car insurance specialists at Quotezone.co.uk are drawing attention to the dangers of wet weather driving that could lead to motoring fines of up to £5,000. Damp conditions pose numerous risks for road users, from impaired visibility to flooded roads and the risk of drenching pedestrians.
The insurance experts also warn that if drivers choose to continue despite poor visibility and an accident occurs, their insurer may refuse their claim.
Flooded roads can also conceal potholes, and with over 90% of drivers confessing to swerving around potholes to protect their vehicle, understanding the safest way to handle them is crucial.
Greg Wilson, CEO and car insurance expert at Quotezone, stated: “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 continued: “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.”
Below are several ways motorists could face penalties whilst driving during wet weather:
Swerving potholes
Potholes generally worsen following rainfall. Around 93% of drivers have confessed to swerving around potholes to prevent damage to their vehicles, yet those taking evasive manoeuvres could actually face sanctions – with fines potentially reaching £2,500 if such behaviour is deemed driving without due care and attention.
Low visibility
When driving in wet conditions, stay aware of spray from other vehicles which can reduce visibility in both directions. Dipped headlights are advised during heavy rain to improve your ability to see and be seen by others.
Additionally, ensure that rainfall hasn’t obscured your windscreen with condensation, as motorists risk fines and penalty points should their forward visibility be compromised.
Flooded roads
Flooded roads present considerable dangers to motorists, ranging from loss of vehicle control to breakdowns or even severe engine damage. Even seemingly shallow water can hide hazardous obstacles such as potholes, meaning drivers should turn back and seek alternative routes wherever feasible.
Most motor insurance policies are unlikely to cover damage incurred from intentionally driving through floodwater.
Soaking pedestrians
When travelling through areas containing large puddles, it’s crucial to consider fellow road users. Driving through puddles and soaking other people could lead to a £100 fine and three penalty points.
Though in certain instances, penalties can escalate to as much as £5,000 for driving without reasonable consideration for other road users.
