Driver training specialist IAM Drive & Survive is offering weekly motoring tips to drivers from its head of training, Simon Elstow. This week he is advising on driving in the countryside.

• Always ensure you can stop within the distance you can see to be clear on your own side of the road. This will mean you probably need to slow down approaching bends. Accelerate when you can see through the bend.
• Be aware that vulnerable road users including cyclists and horses are more likely to use these roads, and give them plenty of space when you do come across them.
• Rural roads can be windy and twisty. Use the line of hedges, trees or telegraph poles to show you which direction the road goes in.
• Drive with extra care past apparently isolated houses and buildings, in case people or vehicles are around.
• Mud on the road may means that farm vehicles will be moving around. Look out for vehicles emerging from field entrances.
• Don’t swerve uncontrollably if a small animal darts out in front of you. It’s better to have a broken fog light or a dented bumper than a loss of control or a serious accident.

Elstow said: “Driving on rural roads requires different skills than driving on urban roads. The unexpected hazards, twisty roads and high speed limits make rural roads tricky, so take extra care and adjust your speed to match how far down the road you can see.”