The wet season is upon us, and many of South Africa’s provinces enjoyed some good rainfall this past weekend. While the rain is welcome and symbolises renewal, it often causes chaos on our roads and leads to accidents. The truth is, many drivers simply don’t know how to drive in the rain. Thankfully, the lovely folks at Ford shared some useful tips on how to become a safer driver during the rainy season
Here are some essential tips on wet weather driving:
Visibility is key:
Ensure your wipers are in good condition and switch on your headlights, even during the day. Clear any fog from your windscreen and rear windows to maintain maximum visibility.
Check your tyres:
Your vehicle’s tyres are its only contact with the road, so ensuring they’re inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure and have enough tread is essential. If you’re unsure about the correct pressure, check the label inside one of the front door frames or consult your owner’s manual.
Avoid using cruise control:
While useful on dry roads, cruise control can be dangerous in the rain. If your tyres lose traction, it may continue accelerating, increasing the risk of skidding. By manually controlling your speed, you can react better to slippery conditions.
Slow down and brake smoothly:
Driving in wet weather increases your vehicle’s stopping distance. Always maintain a
safe distance to ensure you can stop in time.
Maintain Pedestrian Awareness:
Visibility is reduced when driving in the rain, and pedestrians often make quick,
unplanned crossings to avoid getting wet.
Avoid puddles and flood waters:
Don’t underestimate the dangers of driving through potholes or standing water. If you can’t avoid them, slow down to reduce the risk of damaging your vehicle. Hitting potholes or water at speed can harm your wheels or even misalign the suspension and steering.
Beware of standing water:
Standing water can hide hazards and cause aquaplaning, where your tyres lose contact with the road. If this happens, gently ease off the accelerator, avoid sudden braking or steering, and regain control before continuing.
Avoid tailing and overtaking:
Tailing and overtaking in wet conditions is risky, especially around larger vehicles like buses or trucks, which create more spray and can block your view.
Know when to stop:
If you can’t see the road edges or other vehicles clearly at a safe distance, stop and
reassess. Find a safe spot to wait out the storm, as everyone’s visibility will be reduced.
Have an emergency wet weather kit:
Summer rains can quickly flood roads, leaving you stranded. Make sure to keep a wet weather kit in your vehicle, including a raincoat, an umbrella, a waterproof torch, fresh water, snacks, and a change of clothes in case you get wet.
