Written by Jim, JSF Driving School
Driving in hot, sunny conditions can cause drowsiness and difficulty concentrating, especially on longer journeys, so be prepared given the unpredictability of British weather!
Whatever the weather conditions, it is always a good idea to make sure that your car and equipment are in tip top condition with a regular check and service. This is particularly important before you begin a long journey.
Tyre pressures can only be checked and adjusted accurately when cold, so do this before you set off, as well as checking your coolant levels! Tyres tend to be the first victim to fall foul of weather conditions, so check their pressure, and look for overheating every 100 miles or so if the weather goes above 90 degrees (F). Check engine oil levels too, which will lubricate and help keep the engine cool. Remember – high speeds overheat tyres and can cause engine blow out!
Glare
Your windscreen plays a key role in dealing with sunshine and glare, and keeping it clean is a priority in the summer months. Check that the washer reservoir levels are topped up regularly, and consider putting an additive in to help keep the screen and wiper blades clean. Greasy wiper blades can smear rather than clear, so replace them as soon as they become inefficient.
In warmer months there will be an increase in insects and bugs attaching themselves to your windscreen, so keeping it free of little bodies will be a priority. Reducing water and grease marks will help cut down on problems caused by glare.
Glare from the sun will obviously increase during the warmer months, and it can cause real problems, especially on longer journeys. The strain of dealing with glare can affect your concentration, as well as your ability to see clearly. Correct sunglasses can really help in these conditions, improving the situation considerably.
This is particularly true if you are driving abroad in warmer and sunnier climates, but also in this country when the road is wet. Wet roads will reflect more glare, reducing your ability to see. Reduce your speed and take extra care.
You will experience some of the worst problems with glare during the winter months, when the sun is low in the sky, and can be almost blinding! Use of your visor to cut out as much glare as possible is essential, and sunglasses help.
Next week I will be covering the other main problem for summer drivers, coping with heat…..if we ever get any!
T: 0800 3777 138/01452 290278 E: sharn@jsfdrivingschool.co.uk
