Reading the road - All weather driving - Wind

The wind can cause severe problems for road users. Drivers can often be caught unaware.

On the inside of a warm family saloon we are sheltered from the weather to such a degree that we might fail to notice what's happening on the outside. There are always lots of clues to alert us to the fact that there are strong winds, for example, trees swaying, flags and bunting fluttering.

Be especially careful when passing gaps on sheltered roads. A gap in the shelter that is offered by walls or hedges can affect cyclists, who may be blown into your path, and people, especially the elderly, who can easily lose their balance.

Gaps in hills or rows of buildings can affect lorries and vehicles with trailers (for example, caravans).Cars travelling at speed can also be unstable in high wind with sudden 'buffeting'.

Perhaps less obvious is the debris that the wind can leave behind; branches off trees, dustbins, etc. There could be a blown down tree just around the next bend,

The more aware you become of the dangers caused by the wind, the less likelihood there is of being taken by surprise.

Next: Step 2 - Reading the road - All weather driving - Rain...