IAM offers advice for windy driving

ROAD SAFETY charity the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) is offering advice to drivers on coping with windy weather, as more inclement weather sweeps across the country.

Peter Rodger, the IAM's chief examiner, has offered the following tips for driving in high winds:

Plan your journey – is there a route with less exposure to the weather and less risk of fallen trees? Choose a sheltered route if you have the option.

Strong winds are not constant, they are usually gusty so ensure you hold the steering wheel firmly.

Overtaking high sided vehicles or driving past buildings can result in a sudden gust from the side as you clear.

Give cyclists, motorcyclists, lorries and buses more room than usual. They get blown around by side winds easily. Even pedestrians can be blown about.

Watch trees and bushes on the roadside - their branches can show you how strong the wind is. Look well ahead, that way you don’t need to take your eye off the road and you can see any windy patches before you get to them.

Keep an eye on what is happening to other vehicles – where they are affected will give you a pre warning.

Be careful of debris, try and have space beside you in case you need to dodge it.

Peter Rodger comments: “I have seen a parked car moved by the wind. Don’t underestimate how powerful it is and how it can affect you whilst in the car.”

By Press Association reporters