Weathering the windy road ahead

As the UK is being battered by its third storm of 2019 it’s becoming ever-more important to prepare for the potential weather when travelling, whether that be in a Wheelchair Accessible vehicle or a standard vehicle. We’ve put together a list of things you should have to hand in your car so you’re prepared for what the wind might through at you, and things you should consider when you have to drive in less-than-great conditions.

Tips to help your driving in windy weather – if you have to:

Storm Gareth has been whipping up a windy gale across the UK this week, and it’s not entirely pleasant, whether in or out of your vehicle. If you absolutely have to travel in windy weather, then take our advice with these few tips:

1. The RAC recommends packing provisions in case of disruption or breakdowns from severe windy conditions. Pack food and water and a charged mobile phone in case you need to call for help, or just to relay the news of delays.
2. In case of breakdowns during windy weather, or in fact at all, as well as your pack of provisions we suggest you have these items in the vehicle at all times:

– A first aid kit full of all standard medical items, as well as any specific items or essential medications you or your passengers may require if you were to have an accident or breakdown on the road

• A torch (in case you breakdown at night)
• A map
• Jump leads
• Warm clothes and a blanket
• Potentially hazardous roadways and bridges tend to be shut off when it’s extremely windy, so keep your eye on your route and listen out for travel reports, but also avoid crossing high exposed bridges if you can. Also, be more cautious when driving down covered country lanes as there may be fallen branches. Keep an eye on the road and if you notice small branches in the road there could be larger trees or branches just around the corner.
• Take it slow. Drive a bit slower than usual and give more room and more distance between you and those vehicles around you, especially those towing caravans, larger loads, or with top boxes.
• When you reach where you’re going, make sure to try and park your car in a place that won’t be impacted by severe winds. So, not under trees, telephone lines or large signs that could be blown over in extreme conditions.

Also, it may sound obvious but it’s important to hold your steering wheel with both hands, firmly, especially when overtaking or driving along roads that might leave you exposed to strong winds hitting the vehicle from the side.

Hopefully, these tips will help next time you’re taking on the wind on your next journey. Stay warm and safe on the roads to weather the storms, the winter isn’t over yet. To find out how we ensure our Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles are up to European Safety Standards and see our range of adapted vehicles, please click here.