Rain after weeks of extremely dry weather can cause something known as the ‘Florida Ice Effect’, which can make roads incredibly slippery for at least the first thirty minutes.

It happens in the first part of a rain shower when the oils, dust, sludge and grime all get wet and are brought to the surface by the rain, creating a sheen on the roads which makes riding or driving similar to being on ice. This can make it much easier to suddenly lose control of your vehicle and spin out.

In the past, we have seen an increase in the number of road traffic collisions occurring during these periods, so we wanted to publish this warning beforehand.

If we do suddenly experience rain, take extra caution if you’re out on the roads. Ride or drive safely and be a considerate road user; ensuring that you do not travel too close to other road users, and allow extra distance for braking.

Look out for the white bubbles when it rains after a long dry spell, as that can indicate the sludge forming.

Beware where rubber grips bends hard at faster speeds, rubber gets left on the road and it becomes an ice rink after a long dry spell when it first rains, be careful. Brake well before corner to a speed you can follow the bend without braking in the bend.