Lessons and tests do not always take place in dry, clear conditions. The Highway Code has a dedicated section on adverse weather, rules 226 to 237, and new drivers are expected to know it. The Code applies to England, Scotland and Wales. This article summarises what those rules say about wet weather, ice and snow, wind, fog and hot weather, along with the related rule on gaps between vehicles. The Highway Code’s introduction explains that rules using the words MUST or MUST NOT are legal requirements, and that failing to follow other rules can be used in evidence in court proceedings under the Traffic Acts.
When visibility is seriously reduced (rule 226)
Rule 226 says a driver MUST use headlights when visibility is seriously reduced, generally when they cannot see for more than 100 metres (328 feet). Front or rear fog lights may also be used, but they must be switched off when visibility improves. Rule 236 repeats this: a driver MUST NOT use front or rear fog lights unless visibility is seriously reduced, because they dazzle other road users and can obscure brake lights.
Wet weather (rule 227)
The Code says stopping distances in wet weather will be at least double those on dry roads, because tyres have less grip. It advises keeping well back from the vehicle in front, and says that if the steering becomes unresponsive it probably means that water is preventing the tyres from gripping the road; the driver should ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually. It also warns about spray, spilt diesel and vulnerable road users. The general rule on gaps, rule 126, says the gap behind the vehicle in front should be at least doubled on wet roads and up to ten times greater on icy roads.
Icy and snowy weather (rules 228 to 231)
Rule 228 tells drivers to check the local forecast for warnings of ice or snow and not to drive in those conditions unless the journey is essential. If it is, the Code says to take great care, allow more time, and carry an emergency kit including a de-icer and ice scraper, torch, warm clothing and boots, first aid kit, jump leads and a shovel, together with a warm drink and emergency food. Before setting off, rule 229 says a driver MUST be able to see, so all snow and ice must be cleared from all windows, lights must be clean and number plates clear and legible, and mirrors and windows must be clear and demisted.
On the move, rule 230 says to keep well back because stopping distances can be ten times greater than on dry roads, to take care overtaking gritters, and to be wary of snowploughs. Rule 231 advises driving slowly in as high a gear as possible, accelerating and braking very gently, slowing on the straight before a bend, and testing grip by braking gently in a safe place. It adds that if the steering feels unresponsive this may indicate ice, and that on ice tyres make virtually no noise.
Windy weather (rules 232 and 233)
High-sided vehicles are most affected by wind, but the Code says strong gusts can also blow a car, cyclist, motorcyclist or horse rider off course, particularly on open stretches with crosswinds or when passing bridges or gaps in hedges. In very windy weather turbulence from large vehicles can affect other road users, and the Code says motorcyclists are particularly affected and should keep well back when large vehicles overtake high-sided ones.
Fog (rules 234 to 236)
Rule 234 says to check mirrors and slow down before entering fog and that, where a “fog” sign is shown but the road is clear, drivers should be prepared for a bank of fog ahead. Rule 235 lists what to do in fog: use lights as required, keep a safe distance behind the vehicle in front because rear lights can give a false sense of security, be able to stop well within the distance that can be seen clearly, use wipers and demisters, beware of drivers not using headlights, not accelerate away from a vehicle that is too close behind, and check mirrors before slowing so that brake lights warn following drivers. At a junction with limited visibility, the Code says to stop in the correct position and listen for traffic, emerging positively when sure it is safe.
Hot weather (rule 237)
Rule 237 says to keep the vehicle well ventilated to avoid drowsiness, and warns that the road surface may become soft, or slippery if it rains after a dry spell, which could affect steering and braking. It adds that a driver dazzled by bright sunlight should slow down and, if necessary, stop.
What this means for lessons and tests
These rules are guidance and law that apply to every driver, including learners. The Code says nothing about whether a lesson or test will go ahead in a given weather condition, so that is a matter for the instructor and, for tests, the testing authority; the site’s guide to the four parts of the driving test explains what is assessed. Vehicle-check questions are covered in the guide to show me, tell me questions, and the guide to test-day nerves covers preparation.
Common questions
When must I use headlights in daytime? The Code says a driver MUST use headlights when visibility is seriously reduced, generally when they cannot see for more than 100 metres.
How much more room do I need in the wet? Rule 227 says stopping distances will be at least double; rule 126 says the gap to the vehicle ahead should be at least doubled.
The bottom line
The Highway Code’s adverse-weather rules require headlights when visibility is seriously reduced, warn that wet-weather stopping distances are at least double and icy-road distances can be ten times greater, tell drivers to avoid ice and snow unless a journey is essential, and set out how to handle wind, fog and heat. Fog lights must be used only when visibility is seriously reduced. These rules apply to learners and qualified drivers alike. This is general information; the Highway Code itself is the authority.
Sources
- GOV.UK, “The Highway Code: Driving in adverse weather conditions (226 to 237)”
- GOV.UK, “The Highway Code: Introduction”
- GOV.UK, “The Highway Code: General rules, techniques and advice for all drivers and riders (103 to 158)”