The wet weather driving mistakes that could cost you up to £5,000

There appears to be no let-up in the poor weather being experienced in the UK, as Storm Ingrid causes widespread damage and disruption across the country.

Ingrid is already the third named storm of 2026, with heavy rainfall leading to as many as 99 flood warnings and 260 flood alerts. across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

In light of the many yellow and amber weather warnings, motorists are being advised to drive safely and avoid making mistakes that could severely impact them financially. Car insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk have warned motorists about potential hazards, including low visibility, flooded roads and vulnerable pedestrians, which could lead to costs of up to £5,000 if insurers refuse to pay out.

The perils of potholes

One particular hazard to be aware of is potholes. While they are already causing their fair share of damage to our cars in perfect driving conditions, car insurance experts are warning that wet conditions and particularly flooding, can disguise them, making them more difficult to avoid.

And even if you’re able to spot a pothole and swerve to avoid it, there is a further risk of penalty, as swerving to avoid them could be viewed as ‘driving without due care and attention’. Around 93% of motorists have admitted to doing this, risking fines of up to £2,500.

How to deal with low visibility

Another issue that rainy weather presents is low visibility, with spray from other vehicles making driving conditions even trickier. Dipped headlights are recommended when driving in heavy rain for increased visibility, while motorists are also encouraged to ensure that their interiors aren’t steamed up, as it could lead to fines and penalty points if they don’t have a full view of the road.

Approaching flooded roads

While this may seem like the most obvious advice in the world, drivers are encouraged to look for an alternate route when faced with a flooded road. This is due to the significant risks that flooded roads pose to drivers, with an increased likelihood of losing control, stalling, or even damaging the engine, all being possible outcomes.

Most car insurance policies are also unlikely to cover any damage gained from deliberately driving through flooded water, so finding an alternate route or means of transport is advised in this situation.

Warnings about splashing pedestrians

Experts are also warning motorists to be aware of any pedestrians who could be impacted by driving in rainy weather conditions. This is because the penalties that may be issued for driving through a large puddle and splashing a pedestrian could range from a £100 fine and three penalty points, to as much as £5,000 for ‘driving without reasonable consideration for others on the road’.

Greg Wilson, CEO of Quotezone.co.uk, advised caution when driving in heavy rain and flooded conditions, saying: “Slowing down, allowing at least twice the normal stopping distance from the car in front, waiting for conditions to improve, or avoiding non-essential journeys altogether, could help drivers protect their safety, their finances and other road users.”

words: Mike Booth