Drivers have been urged to avoid one simple habit when travelling in the rain that can cause fines (Image: Getty)
Motorists have been urged to avoid a surprisingly common practice that and .
With various parts of the UK recently getting battered by , many stretches of roads are covered in , which poses a serious risk to drivers and surrounding road users.
To keep Brits safe on the roads in the aftermath of the storm, the vehicle manufacturer has advised all drivers to avoid splashing pedestrians by driving through puddles too quickly.
Whilst travelling at speed through water can create some impressive-looking splashes, it could be problematic if pedestrians are nearby.
Under the Road Traffic Act of 1988, driving through a puddle or flooded section of road without reasonable consideration of others is an offence which of .
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Drivers who splash pedestrians when travelling through puddles could receive a fine of up to £5,000 (Image: Getty)
Moreover, motorists may also regret driving too quickly through puddles when they visit the mechanic, with the water running the risk of creating serious faults. In many cases, creating a splash could lead to water getting into various electrical components, meaning that vital components needed to use a vehicle could suddenly stop working.
However, if water gets sucked up into the air intake, it could also create a hydrostatic lock, effectively locking a cylinder into place and destroying the entire engine.
When travelling through puddles and flooded sections of water, it is vital that drivers make sure the problematic stretch of road is not too deep. Slowing down or, if possible, stopping altogether to assess the water depth could help drivers avoid mechanical or electronic faults which, in some cases, could leave them stranded in the water.
Before taking to the roads, it is advisable for drivers to find out what their vehicle’s maximum wading depth is, which should never be exceeded.
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Driving too quickly through water can also damage electronic and mechanical components (Image: Getty)
If the driver determines that the water is not too deep for their vehicle, it is vital that they keep their speed down, which can reduce the risk of aquaplaning, which could lead to skidding and much longer braking distances.
In extreme cases, automotive experts recommend travelling at as little as 3mph, keeping the engine’s revs high to prevent water ingress and stalling.
Once motorists have passed through flooded sections of road or large puddles, they should check that all components are working correctly, such as the brakes, as soon as it is safe to do so.