Weather can be unpredictable and can change quickly.When it does, the risk of a serious collision occurring substantially increases. Wherever possible, drivers should avoid travelling during bad weather conditions but, when a journey is unavoidable, thorough planning, well-maintained vehicles and rigorous policies are essential to reduce crash risk and keep your drivers as safe as possible.

How should I drive in the rain?

If you fit tyres designed for rain like all of our Uniroyal tyres, you should be able to enjoy driving in wet conditions. There’s no doubt that rain brings its own challenges, but many of these can be reduced if you know how to drive in heavy rain.

How to drive in heavy rain
• Watch your speed
• Leave plenty of distance between you and the car in front
• Use your headlights on dipped beam
• Use your air conditioning to prevent internal condensation
• Take your foot off the accelerator if you aquaplane. Do not brake

How should I drive at night?

1. Be Extra Defensive

Drinking and driving poses a bigger risk after dark, according to NHTSA, which has found that the rate of fatal crashes involving alcohol impairment is almost four times higher at night than during the day. Of course, never get behind the wheel after drinking, no matter what time of day it is (don’t drive while distracted either); but at night, it’s a good idea to put your defensive-driving instincts on high alert.

2. Clean Up Your View

Dirty or damaged windshields can scatter light and potentially increase the effects of glare, according to NHTSA. The group also reports that dirty or damaged headlights can decrease your visibility and cast glare onto oncoming drivers. So clean headlights and windshields regularly; you can use a special cleaning kit for headlights.

3. Angle Your Headlights Correctly

If the beams tilt down too much, you’ll lose some of the illumination you need while driving. But if they tilt too high, they can blind oncoming drivers. Some states’ annual inspection tests include checking the headlight angle—but otherwise, take the initiative to make sure yours are pointed correctly. “This isn’t usually a DIY project,” says Rader. “Consumers should go to their car dealer or a repair facility for assistance.”