Driving safely in wet weather conditions

ER24 has urged motorists to be cautious while driving in wet weather.

Driving in these conditions increases the chances of being in a collision.

Remember that rain affects visibility.

Visibility of vehicles, pedestrians, the road, road signs and possible dangers such as potholes and items that are swept onto the road, may be hindered during these conditions.

Here are some tips:

If you have not looked at the state of your windscreen wipers recently, now is a good time to do so. Ensure they are in good working order. If they are not, have them replaced immediately.

Before driving, listen to weather and traffic reports. There may be heavy downpours, flooding or certain roads may be closed to traffic. These reports will help you decide if you can still drive or if you should rather wait.

If you decide to drive in the rain, ensure you put your headlights on. Pay close attention to what is happening around you and keep a safe following distance.

Do not speed. Refrain from breaking or accelerating harshly. You could easily lose control of the vehicle in wet weather.

Do not be impatient while driving. Driving to your destination in these conditions may take longer but rather get to your destination safely instead of rushing and risking your life and that of others.

Also avoid driving through puddles, flowing water and waterlogged bridges. You could damage the vehicle or be swept away in it, depending on circumstances.

Remember that heavy downpours or storms can result in trees being uprooted, tree branches being broken as well as other dangerous items flowing onto the road. Ensure that you pay attention while driving and avoid areas that you cannot assess for possible dangers.

If visibility is bad, rather pull over in a safe area if possible and wait for the rain to ease up.

Remember to keep your headlights and hazard lights on.

Remember that oil and other dirt is washed off the road when it rains. This poses a danger to motorists as the roads become slippery. Drive with caution at all times.

Pedestrians are also urged not to walk in rainy, low visibility weather or to cross rivers, walk on riverbanks or areas that are flooded. Depending on circumstances, a vehicle could knock you over, you could lose your balance or sustain injuries from items that may be floating in moving water or flooded areas as well as be swept away in heavy flow.