How can I protect my car during heavy rain and flooding?

Heavy rain and flooding can make driving more dangerous and could damage your car. There are things you can do to help protect yourself and your car. We’ve brought together some practical tips and relevant advice from the Highway Code to help you prepare and drive safely in wet weather.

Before you travel

Check the weather forecast before you set off. If heavy rain or flooding is expected, think about delaying your journey until conditions improve. If you need to travel, check for any road closures and plan your route in advance. It can also help to know where you can stop safely if needed.

Before leaving, make sure your car is ready for the conditions. Check your tyres, lights, wipers, fuel level, oil, coolant and screen wash. Good visibility is especially important when driving in heavy rain. It's worth thinking about what you would do if your car were to break down, or you needed roadside assistance. If you've got cover in place already, make sure you have the contact details with you.

It's also a good idea to carry a few useful items in your car such as:

• an umbrella and waterproof coat
• a phone charger or power bank
• drinking water and food
• a blanket

Driving in heavy rain

Heavy rain can make it harder to see the road and control your car safely. Even light rain can make roads slippery, so it's important to adjust the way you drive. You should always follow the Highway Code's advice for driving in wet weather.

For example, the Code states that you should slow down and leave more space between you and the vehicle in front. On wet roads, your stopping distance will be longer, so leave at least a 4 second gap where possible. Use dipped headlights if visibility is poor. Spray from other vehicles can suddenly reduce your view of the road, so stay alert and keep a safe distance.

It also states that you should watch out for standing water, which is any pool or body of water that does not flow, move or drain away like a large puddle. If you can avoid it safely, do so. If you need to drive through a shallow area of water, slow down and drive carefully. Once you're through, gently test your brakes when it is safe to make sure they are working properly.

Strong winds often come with heavy rain and thunderstorms. As well as raising the risk of unexpected debris in the road, these winds can make your car harder to control, especially on open roads. The code states that you should reduce your speed and take extra care around larger vehicles.

How can I avoid flood damage to my car?

If flooding is expected in your area, move your car to higher ground if it is safe to do so. Never drive into floodwater if you are unsure how deep it is. Water may be deeper than it looks, and even shallow floodwater can damage your car or cause you to lose control.

If a road is flooded, find an alternative route. It is usually safer to turn around than risk driving through floodwater. If floodwater enters your car, do not try to start the engine. Starting the vehicle could cause further damage. Get yourself and others to safety then contact your breakdown provider or insurer for advice on what to do next.

What if I break down?

If you experience a problem with your vehicle, stay calm and think about your safety first. If you need to stop, move as far away from traffic as you can and switch on your hazard lights.

If it is safe to leave the vehicle, move to a safe place away from the road and contact your breakdown provider for help or use an emergency telephone if you're on the motorway to connect to National Highways.

Planning ahead and taking safety seriously are the best ways to keep safe during heavy rain and flooding.