Drivers urged to take care on wet roads (From Evesham Journal)

Drivers urged to take care on wet roads

9:50am Monday 24th September 2012 in News By Sarah Davies

WARNINGS have been issued about the dangers of driving through standing water caused by the current downpours.

Heavy rain overnight has led to localised flooding and the Met Office is advising people within the Midlands area to "be prepared" as further showers are due today.

West Mercia's Safer Roads Partnership is urging drivers to take extra care and to keep up to date with any news on local radio stations regarding road closures.

Vicki Bristow, from the partnership, said: "With the recent heavy rainfall and with more forecast for today, we are urging all motorists to take care on affected roads, follow our advice and use their own common sense whilst water levels are still high."

Motorists are advised to drive slowly and steadily if travelling through large puddles, allow oncoming traffic to pass and always test their brakes after leaving the water.

Drivers who come across a road that is flooded are urged not to attempt to drive through the water for their own safety.

The partnership has also warned that visibility can also be seriously reduced in heavy rain, stating headlights must be used together with allowing a bigger gap for cars travelling in front.

Anyone who breaks down in the current weather should try and get the car to a safe and visible place, call for roadside assistance and wait for help to arrive.