SAFETY TIPS FOR DRIVING IN THE RAIN

Most African countries are approaching rain season and some have already experienced the rain, as much as we love the rain season, this period gets really dangerous on the road, rain and a wet road are probably one of the worst combinations and most drivers tend to dread this period. Most drivers tend to slow down as a safety caution, this is a crucial element on driving safely during rainy season but there are other safety measures that drivers can apply while driving in the rain.

KNOW THE ROADS

Try to stick to routes and roads that you know very well, you know that there is a hump right ahead or potholes so you can know how to go about it. If you are new in an area use extra caution during and after the storm.

DO NOT GO IN TOO DEEP

If the road is completely covered by water to a point where you can not see the markings on the road that simply means is too deep , when the road is filled with water it is very easy to lose control or risk a bigger vehicle passing and pushing water towards your direction and might make you lose control.

MAKE SURE YOUR CAR IS IN GOOD CONDITION AND CLEAN

When visibility is limited by wet weather, it’s important that your car itself doesn’t impede your sight. Once a month, clean the outsides and insides of windshields and windows, and check your windshield wiper blades for wear. Check the level of your washer fluid once a week.

SWITCH ON LIGHTS

Once you turn on all your lights you give other drivers an opportunity to see where you are. When you turn your headlights on and your headlights on and your backlights come on, you identify all four corners of the vehicle.

SLOW DOWN

Ensure that there is a safe distance between you and and the next driver in front of you. This is the best time to go slower than the actual speed limit.

Driving during the rain season is much more dangerous than it actually seems, more than half of flood fatalities involve a vehicle one way or another. It is important that you avoid unnecessary trips to lessen the risk. With this coming rain season make sure you maintain safety precautions at all costs.