Wet autumn roads: braking and visibility by the rulebook
Darker, wetter commutes are back. Stopping distances at least double in the wet, and fluorescent kit by day plus reflective kit at night makes you easier to see.
2 min readUnited KingdomBy PitPin Desk
Autumn brings rain, spray and shorter days. On the wet ride home in the dark, leave a longer gap and wear something drivers can see.
Double the gap
The Highway Code says stopping distances in the wet are at least double those on dry roads, because tyres have less grip. Keep well back from the vehicle in front. That also gives you more time to see and plan.
It also flags spilt diesel, which makes the surface very slippery. If the steering goes light or unresponsive, water may be stopping the tyres from gripping. Ease off the throttle and slow down gradually.
Rule 237 covers the first rain after a dry spell. The surface can turn slippery and affect steering and braking.
Brake differently in the wet
DVSA guidance for riders is to use both brakes. In good conditions you apply the front just before the rear, with more pressure on the front. On a wet or slippery road, apply a more equal pressure to both brakes.
Avoid braking in a bend. Get your speed off on the straight before it.
ABS can help prevent a skid. DVSA says it will not shorten your stopping distance, so the longer wet-weather gap still applies.
Be seen, and keep your own view clear
By day, the Highway Code suggests a light or brightly coloured helmet and fluorescent clothing or strips, with dipped headlights to make you more conspicuous. Drivers may still not see you, or may misjudge your speed and distance, especially at junctions.
In the dark, reflective clothing or strips pick up other vehicles' headlights and make you visible from further away.
Check your visor before every ride. Scratched or badly fitting eye protection limits your view, particularly in bright sun and at night. If low autumn sun dazzles you, slow down and stop if you need to.
Quick checklist
- Double your following gap in the rain.
- Even out front and rear brake pressure on wet roads.
- Finish braking before the bend.
- Wear something fluorescent by day and reflective at night.
- Clean or replace a scratched visor.