Driving in Bad Weather Conditions – our top tips

Driving in bad weather is often a concern for new drivers. As winter approaches, the weather in Cork often becomes cold, icy, and rainy, making driving conditions more challenging. At M N Phoenix Driving School, we are dedicated to providing top-quality driving lessons to help you become a confident and safe driver, no matter what the weather may be. With over 100 5-star Google reviews, our team of experienced instructors is equipped to handle a variety of driving conditions and help you succeed on the road.

In this blog, we share tips for driving in bad weather conditions, including ice, snow, rain, fog, winds, and bright sun. By following these tips, you can help ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road. We’ve even included some RSA videos to help!

Driving in bad weather – frost, ice and snow

• Slow down and leave extra space between you and other vehicles.
• Use lower gears when going uphill, and take turns slowly.
• Use your brakes gently to avoid skidding. If your wheels start to skid, ease off the brake and steer in the direction you want the front wheels to go.
• Avoid using cruise control in slippery conditions.
• If you get stuck in the snow, straighten the wheels and use a low gear to slowly try to rock the vehicle back and forth to free it.

Want more? Here’s 10 tips from the RSA for driving in ice and snow.

Driving in rain

• Turn on your headlights to improve visibility for yourself and other drivers.
• Use your windshield wipers and keep your windows clean to improve visibility.
• Slow down and increase your following distance to allow for extra stopping time.
• Avoid driving through large puddles, as they can cause loss of control or damage to your vehicle.
• Be aware of hydroplaning, which occurs when your tires lose contact with the road due to a thin layer of water. If you start to hydroplane, ease off the accelerator and steer straight until you regain traction.

Driving in bad foggy weather

• Turn on your headlights and fog lights (if you have them) to improve visibility.
• Use your low beams, as high beams will reflect off the fog and reduce visibility.
• Slow down and increase your following distance.
• Use your wipers to clear moisture from your windshield.
• Be aware of other vehicles and pedestrians, as they may be difficult to see in the fog.

Driving in high winds

• Hold the steering wheel firmly with both hands and keep a firm grip.
• Be extra cautious when driving through construction zones, as debris can be blown onto the road.
• Be aware of wind gusts, which can cause your vehicle to veer or push you off course.
• Avoid driving high-profile vehicles, such as buses and trailers, in high winds as they are more prone to being blown around.
• Be prepared for crosswinds when driving on bridges or overpasses.

Driving in bright sun

• Wear sunglasses to reduce glare and improve visibility.
• Keep your windows clean to reduce glare.
• Use your visor to block the sun’s rays.
• Be aware of sun glare, which can cause temporary blindness and reduced visibility.
• Keep an eye out for pedestrians and cyclists, as they may be more difficult to see in bright sun.

Summary of driving in bad or severe weather

By following these tips, you can help ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road when driving in bad weather conditions. Remember to always stay alert, drive defensively, and never let weather conditions or other distractions compromise your safety on the road.

The Irish weather and roads can be a particular challenge for foreign drivers who have recently moved to Ireland. If you’re new to driving in this country, it can be helpful to get some extra practice and guidance to help you become more comfortable on the roads. At M N Phoenix Driving School, we specialise in providing Reduced EDT lessons to help foreign drivers get up to speed and gain confidence behind the wheel. Our experienced instructors are knowledgeable about the specific challenges of driving in Ireland, and can provide personalized guidance to help you succeed on the road. If you’re a foreign driver looking for some extra support, we encourage you to reach out to us and see how we can help. Find out more about our Reduced EDT Lessons here.