Jeremy Clarkson Forum

[darmog]

As JC could walk on water I seek wisdom at this Oracle.
November had record amount of rain and unusually heavy showers. Driving on M8 East of Glasgow I found myself undr one of these cloudburst when rain was obscuring curtain and appeared to bounce - a Raindance which must mean splash up from hitting water already there ie. pooling /standing water. I slowed to below critical speed numbers known to me from flying little airplanes in Canada. But mabny other cars did not appear slowed much. I abandoned my intended journey on recalling letter in "The Herald" titled "safe speed in Rain etc", which wa prompted by recent report "In heavy rain car left motorway -two dead". Talking to aquaintances many told of evident hydroplaning episodes survived without harm but which had taken them by surprise. Only one had any clear idea of his critical speed. And I had found story in Sun 4 yr sgo by footballer Robin van Persie of how he wrecked BMW. I thought I can't ignore the advice - because it was my letter - a famous author at last, so I didn't want to die quite yet. I found references to "Autocar" reports on car tyre performance. 3 Nov 1999 and 10 Oct 2007, and NASA Tech Note Nov 1963.
I would like to hear of other's experiences relating to the Hydroplaning phenomenon - recognition of conditions and safe avoidance or enjoyment?
Subject sounds like good one for a Top Gear adventure on Jeremy's Thrill Track.
Any theories why D Schools, DSA etc don't teach this? Far more useful than stopping distance numbers as you can't pace out the road ahead just before a manoevre but must build up perceptual- motor skills.
And why are several apparently mature experienced drivers suddenly dead?

[norfolkcaravanner]

Probably because they drive like f****** idiots when its pissing down with rain!

[Ivor Bigtruck]

Following the foggy weather earlier this week, and the resulting headache suffered caused by the mass misuse of rear hi-intensity fog lights, why, oh why, do people feel the need to use these bloody lights, and then continue to drive up the motorway at speeds far in excess of 70 mph?

Since I started driving many many years ago, I have only thought it necessary to use rear fog lights once, in extremely thick fog, and then when the vehicle following me was aware that I was there, I turned them off so as not to dazzle the driver.

The reason for multiple vehicle pile ups on the motorways during foggy or misty weather is not due to bad visibility, but because when someone needs to brake suddenly, their brake lights are not recognised amongst the sea of hi-intesity red rear lights.

They are, without doubt, the single most misused and dangerous thing fitted to modern vehicles.

For safety's sake, TURN THE BLOODY THINGS OFF!

[norfolkcaravanner]

Totally agree......and kill anyone driving on sidelights only.......