The rainy season is here with us again. That means floods, misty conditions, cold and the inevitable gridlocks. In such conditions, roads are slippery and visibility is compromised. One is also likely to encounter flooded road sections and impatient motorists. Driving safely in such conditions calls for a careful approach and using your wits.
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Here are some tips:
- Its ok to wait: Its perfectly fine to pull over and wait for the weather to improve. If you cannot see cars in front of you, your car is constantly slipping and sliding or the roads are flooded; don’t risk it, pull over.
- Exercise patience: Do not act out your frustrations or anger. You are more likely to take risks and drive dangerously if you are emotional. Anxious motorists are also bound to get on your nerves. Take a deep breath, relax and be calm.
- Slow down: Slippery roads makes your car uncontrollable. Minimize the risk of crashing into other motorists and pedestrians by slowing down. Be gentle with your turning, accelerating and braking.
- Keep distance: Increase the distance you normally keep from the car in front of you. This will give you more comfortable distance to react incase of sudden movements on their part.
- Turn on your headlights: This will not only aid in your visibility but will also alert other motorists and pedestrians of your presence.
- If your car hydroplanes, do not brake: Instead gentle ease up on the gas peddle and steer the car in the direction it is headed until it gains traction again and you can control it.
- Drive on established tracks: Drive on the tyre tracks left by previous cars. That is the part of the road you will be sure has traction and chances of getting stuck are, therefore, low.
- Avoid flooded road sections: If possible, look for alternative routes if you encounter flooded road sections. You risk getting swept away, getting stuck or damaging your car.
