Image: MasterDrive
Image: MasterDrive
Wet roads make for particularly tricky conditions for many drivers, but slippery roads are even more prevalent after the first rains of the season. Here are some tips to keep in mind when driving in the wet.
Image: MasterDrive
Over the last few days, many parts of South Africa experienced the first rains of summer. During this period, the roads become even more hazardous as a result of accumulated oil and grease on the road surface, collected during the dry season. This makes the slippery roads even more difficult to keep traction with in comparison to the same surface in the middle of rainy season.
MasterDrive CEO, Eugene Herbert, says if you do find your car starting to skid, follow these tips. “The most important reaction is to gradually reduce your speed. Don’t brake harshly and suddenly. Keep both hands on the steering wheel.”
Follow these additional tips on the best way to handle the roads in wet conditions:
- Check your wiper blades to ensure that they have not weathered over winter.
- Give yourself more travel time so you do not have to rush in bad weather.
- Adjust your speed to suit the conditions, however, do not slow down unnecessarily as this is just as dangerous.
- Do not use cruise control.
- Make use of your headlights, even during the day if conditions are bad.
- Leave double the following distance.
- Do not forget to drive looking 12 seconds ahead.
- Brake earlier and with more caution.
- Avoid water that has pooled on the roads.
- If you cannot avoid this, drive through it slowly in case there is hidden debris or potholes.
- Driving recklessly and speeding increases chances of hydroplaning.
- If you hydroplane, slowly lift your foot from the accelerator but do not brake harshly or move your steering wheel violently.
- If there is a section of road with fast flowing water, rather turn around or pull over if you can safely do so. It only takes 15cm of water to lift a car off the tar.
- Consider going for driver training on a skidpan to learn how to react if you do lose control during rainy weather.
Keyword: Slippery roads arrive with first rains of the season – driving tips