As the weather cools down and rain becomes more frequent, taking extra care while you're on the road is encouraged.
No matter how you’re riding, rain can change road conditions. Wet and slippery surfaces, reduced visibility and longer stopping distances can all affect your journey.
We’re sharing some simple steps that may help you stay comfortable and ride safely in rainy weather.
Dress for the weather
Staying warm and dry can help you stay comfortable and focused while you’re riding. Consider wearing waterproof layers that are suitable for your vehicle type and don’t restrict your movement or visibility.
Although you don’t have to purchase these, Deliveroo offers waterproof kit items, like waterproof Rider jackets, on the Rider kit store.
Rain and darker skies can also make it harder for other road users to see you. Wearing bright or reflective clothing can help make you more visible when conditions are poor.
Take extra care on wet roads
Roads usually become slippery when it rains, so it’s a good idea to adjust your riding to suit the conditions.
Road markings, metal drain covers, wet leaves and other smooth surfaces can become more slippery when wet. Sudden braking or sharp turns can be dangerous during wet weather, so try to give yourself plenty of time to react to what’s happening around you.
Leave enough space to stop
On a wet road, it can take longer to stop safely, and extra space between road users allows more time to react if something unexpected happens. Conditions like these are often easier to manage at a speed that suits the road, with particular care around junctions, crossings and corners.
Watch out for standing water
Standing water is any body of water that is still, such as puddles. It can hide potholes, debris or other hazards, so water like this is often best avoided where the road allows. Sudden manoeuvres to get around a puddle can bring their own risks for everyone nearby. Where there's significant flooding, or the way ahead can't be passed safely, stopping somewhere safe tends to be the sensible course.
Check your vehicle
A vehicle in good working condition makes for safer riding, so there's value in a quick check before any journey. Tyres, brakes and lights are worth particular attention, and on a motorised vehicle the windscreen wipers matter too. Anything that doesn't look or feel right is usually best looked at before setting off.
Taking regular breaks
Riding in persistent rain can be tiring and weather conditions can change quickly. You may want to pace yourself to help you stay alert and give you an opportunity to warm up and dry off.
If the weather becomes more severe or you don’t feel comfortable continuing, you are able to stop riding and find somewhere safe to wait. Remember, you can choose when you go online and if you want to accept orders.
Ride safe in wet weather
When the rain arrives, a little preparation can help you feel comfortable and ready for the road. By planning ahead, taking some time and making the right choices for their wellbeing, road users can help keep themselves and community members safe while riding in wet weather.