Storm Ingrid downpours spark warning over costly driving errors
- Perry Richardson
- 3 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Motorists driving in heavy rain linked to Storm Ingrid risk facing fines of up to £5,000 and potential insurance claim refusals if they make common mistakes in poor conditions, according to new warnings from insurance specialists.
Car insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk say persistent rainfall across large parts of the UK is increasing the likelihood of drivers falling foul of road traffic laws or invalidating their insurance cover through poor decision-making.
Reduced visibility, standing water and damaged road surfaces are among the most significant hazards during wet weather. Insurers warn that drivers who continue to travel in conditions where visibility is severely compromised could be judged to have driven without due care and attention, a factor that may lead to claims being rejected if an incident occurs.
Waterlogged roads are also masking potholes, increasing the risk of sudden manoeuvres. Industry data cited by Quotezone suggests more than nine in ten motorists admit to swerving to avoid potholes, a practice that can result in fines of up to £2,500 if it is deemed unsafe or careless by enforcement authorities.
Insurance specialists warn wet weather offences and invalidated cover risks as heavy rain impacts road conditions nationwide
Visibility remains a key enforcement issue during heavy rain. Spray from other vehicles and misted windscreens can significantly restrict a driver’s view, and motorists are required to maintain a clear windscreen and appropriate lighting. Failure to do so can result in fines and penalty points, particularly if dipped headlights are not used in poor conditions.
Flooded roads present another financial risk. Insurers caution that deliberately driving through standing water can lead to loss of control, mechanical failure or severe engine damage. Most standard motor insurance policies exclude cover for damage caused when a driver knowingly enters floodwater, leaving motorists exposed to potentially high repair costs.
Drivers may also face penalties for splashing pedestrians or other road users when driving through puddles. While fixed penalties typically start at £100 and three points, courts can impose fines of up to £5,000 for driving without reasonable consideration for others, particularly where vulnerable road users are affected.
Quotezone said the warnings are particularly relevant for professional drivers and fleet operators, where repeated offences or uninsured losses can have broader commercial implications. The firm said drivers should reassess journey necessity during severe weather and adapt driving behaviour to reduce legal and financial exposure.
Greg Wilson, CEO and car insurance expert at Quotezone said: “Rainy conditions dramatically increase the risk of costly driving errors, and motorists need to be aware of the safest ways to navigate these dangerous elements.
“Motorists could face hefty fines and penalty points for making common wet weather mistakes, including splashing pedestrians, driving on flooded roads and swerving to avoid potholes.
“Potholes are a key hazard to be aware of as the weather deteriorates. The battle against potholes can be felt around the country, and they are often worse after periods of rainy weather. Particularly wet weather can even disguise potholes, so they become even more of a danger to motorists.
“However, many drivers may be unaware that their attempts to avoid car damage from dangerous potholes could see them penalised, as swerving potholes could be viewed as driving without due care and attention.
“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.”
