Wet Weather Driving in the UK - How to Stay Safe on Wet Roads

The UK is no stranger to wet weather. With around 150 days of rainfall each year on average, British drivers regularly face slippery roads, standing water and reduced visibility. In recent years, we’ve also seen longer periods of persistent rain and more intense downpours, which put even greater strain on vehicles.

At Startin Group, we believe preparation is everything. Whether you drive a city hatchback, a family SUV or a commercial van, looking after your car properly makes all the difference when the roads turn wet.

Here’s how to make sure your vehicle is ready.

Tyres - Your First Line of Defence

If there’s one component that matters most in heavy rain, it’s your tyres.

Tyres are responsible for dispersing water away from the contact patch. When tread depth is low, the tyre can’t channel water effectively, increasing the risk of aquaplaning.

What to check:

• Minimum legal tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm - but we recommend replacing tyres at 3mm for better wet performance

• Check for uneven wear

• Ensure tyre pressures are correct (under-inflated tyres reduce grip and increase stopping distances)

If you’re unsure, our teams across the Startin network can carry out a quick tyre inspection and advise on safe replacements.

Wiper Blades - Don’t Wait Until You Can’t See

Wiper blades are often ignored until they start smearing water across the windscreen.

In heavy rain, poor wipers can seriously reduce visibility. If your blades:

• Leave streaks

• Skip across the glass

• Make noise

• Fail to clear water properly

It’s time to replace them.

Wiper blades are inexpensive but critical for safe driving in British weather.

Lights - Be Seen, Not Just See

Rain doesn’t just reduce your ability to see - it makes it harder for other drivers to see you.

Check:

• Headlights

• Brake lights

• Rear fog lights

• Indicators

Modern vehicles often have automatic lights, but don’t rely solely on technology. A quick visual check every few weeks can prevent unnecessary risk.

Brakes - Wet Roads Mean Longer Stopping Distances

Even with good tyres, braking distances increase significantly in wet conditions.

If you notice:

• Squealing

• Grinding

• A soft brake pedal

• Vibration when braking

Book an inspection immediately.

Water can also sit on brake discs after driving through puddles. Gently applying the brakes after driving through standing water can help dry them out safely.

Check for Blocked Drainage Points

Modern vehicles have drainage channels around:

• Windscreens

• Sunroofs

• Door seals

If these block with debris, water can leak into the cabin or electrical systems.

During servicing at Startin, our technicians check for these issues, helping prevent costly water damage.

Battery Health - Rain Often Means Colder Weather Too

Persistent rain often comes with lower temperatures, increased use of lights, heated screens and blowers.

All of this puts additional demand on your battery.

If your car is slow to start or your battery is more than four years old, it may be worth having it tested before it fails unexpectedly.

Protect Your Paintwork

Heavy rain often carries dirt, road salt and grime. Over time, this can affect your paint and underbody.

Regular washing - particularly during extended wet spells - helps prevent:

• Surface corrosion

• Salt build-up

• Premature paint deterioration

If you’re keeping your vehicle long term, protecting it now preserves both condition and value.

Know How to Handle Aquaplaning

Even with a well-maintained vehicle, standing water can cause aquaplaning.

If it happens:

• Ease off the accelerator gently

• Do not brake suddenly

• Keep the steering steady

• Allow the tyres to regain grip naturally

Preparation reduces risk - panic increases it.

Motorway Spray - Staying Safe at Speed

Heavy rain on motorways creates dense spray from larger vehicles, especially HGVs, which can suddenly reduce visibility.

To stay safe:

• Increase your following distance - leave more space than usual to allow for longer stopping distances.

• Avoid driving alongside lorries - spray from their tyres can completely obscure your view.

• Use dipped headlights - this helps other drivers see you in heavy spray.

• Keep a firm grip on the wheel - standing water can pull at the steering.