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WET WEATHER IS CATCHING OUT MOTORISTS SAYS GREEN FLAG Despite warm temperatures, wet winter conditions are making the country''s major and minor road systems treacherous for unwary motorists. With the onslaught of the inclement weather, breakdown specialist, Green Flag Motoring Assistance is receiving increased calls for help from motorists caught out by the affects of the downpour. Motorists are calling for help due to a variety of weather-related reasons, brought on by wet weather said Green Flag spokesperson, Nigel Charlesworth. ''Reduced visibility and cars aquaplaning on surface water are increasing calls for help or recovery for minor accidents and drivers who take a chance in driving through deep water are experiencing engine cut-out.'' ''For many, the option of not driving is not available to them, but for others, we advise that, if rain is heavy or torrential, to make other arrangements,'' he added. Worst hit areas are those in the North, particularly West Yorkshire and the North East. The Met office warn that today (Tuesday) heavy, thundery rain will affect parts of north western, central and eastern England with flooding a possibility. Green Flag offers the following tips to help motorists who may face floods and heavy rain this week. If you have to travel during flood conditions, tune into local radio stations for the latest warning status from the Environment Agency and listen out for traffic reports on roads that are flooded. Save the Environment Agency''s Floodline number (0845 988 1188) on your mobile phone so you can keep up to date with the weather conditions. Driving through flooded roads can cause problems with the electrics of most cars and affects the engine management system, coils, distributors and leads. Keep your speed down to avoid splashing water under the bonnet. If possible, check the depth of water before driving through it. Two feet of water is enough to sweep your car away. If you think it''s too deep, try to find an alternative route. If driving through water is unavoidable, drive through it slowly in first gear but keep the engine speed high by slipping the clutch to prevent stalling. Avoid the deepest parts, usually near the kerb, near bridges or dips in the road. Test your brakes when you are out of the floodwater. Heavy rain reduces visibility, so you may need to use dipped headlights. Aquaplaning happens when the car''s tyres lose contact with the road surface. If this happens, slow the vehicle down naturally and resist the urge to slam on the brakes. Keep the car in a straight line and ease off the accelerator. On coastal roads, lookout for pebbles and stones being thrown up by waves, they may hit you or your car. Nigel Charlesworth added: ''We put contingency plans in place when particularly bad weather is forecast, to ensure we are capable of coping with increased demand. This means if our customers do get into difficulties, we will be ready to help around the clock. For more information on Green Flag''s services call 0845 246 1557.
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