Experts urge drivers to prepare for wet weather and darker evenings ahead of back-to-back storms

Go.Compare car insurance is urging anyone taking to the roads this weekend to prepare their cars and plan their journeys carefully as amber and yellow weather warnings affect parts of the UK. The warnings coincide with the start of half term for many schools and the clocks going back on Sunday.

The clocks go back an hour at 2am on Sunday 25 October, bringing earlier darkness in the evenings. The comparison site is reminding drivers to check tyres, lights and windscreen wipers before setting off. Drivers should also check the latest warnings and traffic updates for their whole route, allow extra time and consider delaying their trip if they're likely to be met with unsafe driving conditions.

Steve Ramsey, Go.Compare car insurance spokesperson, commented: “Whether you’re heading away, visiting friends or making your usual journeys, it’s important not to overlook road conditions. Checking the forecast and making sure your car is ready for wet weather and darker evenings should be part of your plans before you set off.

“Amber warnings can mean significant travel disruption and potential danger to life, while yellow warnings can also affect journeys. Read the advice for the areas you’ll be travelling through rather than relying on the warning colour alone. If conditions are unsafe, consider postponing your journey rather than pressing ahead to keep to your original plans.

“If it’s safe to do so, take a few minutes before setting off to check your tyres, test your lights and wipers, and top up your screenwash. Darker evenings make it especially important to see clearly and be seen by other road users. It’s also worth keeping an emergency kit in the car and checking that your breakdown cover is up to date.”

Go.Compare's guide to driving and weather warnings explains what the different warning levels mean for motorists.

To help motorists prepare, Go.Compare has shared the following checklist:

• Check your route before you go. Read the latest weather warnings for your departure point, destination and the areas in between. Follow official advice and road closures, and reconsider your journey if severe weather is expected.
• Make sure your tyres are ready. Check tread depth, look for damage and ensure tyre pressures match the manufacturer’s recommendations for your vehicle and its load.
• See clearly and be seen. Check that all lights are clean and working, clean your windscreen and mirrors, test your wipers and top up screenwash. Make sure you know how to operate your lights and demist the windows before setting off.
• Check the essentials. Check that oil and coolant levels are in line with your vehicle handbook, and have any battery concerns checked before a long trip. Check that your breakdown cover is valid and keep the contact details handy.
• Pack for unexpected delays. Keep blankets or warm clothing, drinking water, non-perishable snacks, a torch and a charged power bank in the car.
• Slow down and leave more space. Adapt your speed to the conditions and leave a larger gap to the vehicle in front. The Highway Code says stopping distances in wet weather are at least double those on dry roads. Use headlights when visibility is seriously reduced.
• Be prepared for gusts. Give cyclists, motorcyclists and high-sided vehicles extra room in strong winds, particularly on exposed roads. Keep both hands on the steering wheel and never drive through floodwater; find a safe alternative route instead.

Steve added: “A weather warning does not automatically invalidate your car insurance, but what is covered will depend on your policy and the circumstances of any claim. Follow official advice, never ignore road closures and don’t take unnecessary risks to reach your destination.”

You can find further guidance in Go.Compare's winter driving guide.

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