Storm Darragh is bringing heavy rain and gusts of up to 90mph, putting drivers at risk of accidents
As continues to batter the country, drivers have been urged to before getting behind the wheel in order to stay safe.
While the storm is particularly impacting parts of and , bringing gusts of up to 90mph, drivers in much larger areas of the UK are experiencing heavy downpours and severe gusts.
As a result, Bryn Brooker, head of road safety at the vehicle dashcam manufacturer , has recommended that all drivers check their windscreen before taking to the roads.
He advised: “Don’t start driving until you have good visibility out of your windshield, which could take a few minutes after a storm.
“With winds this high debris could leave leaves and other debris all over your windshield. Make sure to clear it so you have good visibility – if you don’t you could face an .”
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Drivers must clear any debris off their windscreen before setting off to prevent a £60 fine
While all motorists are familiar of having to defrost and demist their windscreen when travelling in cold winter weather, drivers who need to travel during harsh weather also need to make sure their windows are clear from debris.
With particularly large gusts of wind, more drivers will experience items such as leaves and litter attached to the windows of their vehicle, which can increase their blind spots and potentially lead to a £60 fine.
Similarly, drivers should also check their windscreen wiper blades for damage, as motorists travelling during Storm Darragh must be able to clear rain from the screen to prevent serious accidents caused by limited visibility.
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Motorists should also check that their tyres have plenty of tread and enough pressure
Bryn also suggested that drivers check that their tyres are in good shape and they have plenty of fuel to minimise the risk of being stranded.
He added: “Always check the weather before you drive and ensure your vehicle is storm-ready.
“Make sure your tires are in good condition, and that your windshield wipers and defrosters are working well. Keep your fuel tank topped up, as power outages may affect gas stations.”
Finally, the motoring safety expert urged drivers to make sure they have packed any items that could help to keep them comfortable and safe if they are stuck during their trip.
He continued: “In case you become stranded, it’s essential to have an emergency kit on hand. Keep essentials like blankets, snacks, bottled water, a first-aid kit, a torch, a phone charger, and a power bank.
“It’s also wise to carry a fully charged mobile phone and the contact details of emergency services.”