Ways to stay safe when thunderstorms hit
King Price’s partner of client experience, Wynand van Vuuren, says that the Highveld’s legendary thunderstorms often lead to a spike in accidents and losses – but there are several ways to reduce your risk and exposure
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With severe thunderstorms and heavy rain forecast for Gauteng for the rest of the week, you should take special precautions to keep yourself and your car safe.
That’s the warning from insurer King Price’s partner of client experience, Wynand van Vuuren, who says that the Highveld’s legendary thunderstorms often lead to a spike in accidents and losses – but there are several ways to reduce your risk and exposure.
Know when thunderstorms are on the way
Staying up to date with the latest weather forecast has never been easier: simply turn on your weather app notifications before planning a trip or a commute. Or, if you’re old school, stay tuned to the weather reports on the radio or TV.
“Try and stay off the roads, if at all possible. Driving in a storm is risky, and no fun,” van Vuuren said.
Park your car under cover
Insurers see hundreds of claims for hail damage every year. The simplest way to avoid hail damage is to park your car in your garage, or under a carport. If you don’t have covered parking, you can use a car cover, or even a blanket, to minimise damage and protect your car’s most exposed surfaces, like the windscreen and bonnet.
Find a safe place if you’re caught in a storm
If a severe thunderstorm starts when you’re on the road, stay calm, and use your GPS to get you to the nearest sheltered spot as quickly as possible, like a petrol station or an underground parking area in a shopping centre.
“A tree doesn’t count as a safe place, as falling branches and debris can damage your car. And stopping under a bridge on the highway in the middle of a storm is neither safe nor advisable,” van Vuuren explained.
Make sure your wipers are in top condition
In case you’re caught in a storm and there’s nowhere to go, your best defence is proactive preparation. Get your wipers checked before rainy season starts, and use water repellent for your windscreen, to make sure your visibility is as clear as possible while you’re on the road.
Check your tyres are storm-worthy
In rainy weather, water creates a tiny barrier between the road and your tyres, which means you can lose traction and hydroplane. Thousands of accidents happen each year because of wet roads, and your preparation starts with your tyres: make sure they have at least 1mm tread depth, and that they’re inflated to the correct pressure, especially if your car hasn’t been driven for a while.
“In short: prevention is better than cure. But when rainy weather hits, make sure you’re covered, one way or another. Be safe out there,” said van Vuuren.
Also Read: Tips on how to stay safe as thunderstorms loom
Also Read; Tuesday Life Hack: 6 tips for driving in wet weather