Safety tips for driving in wet weather
With the wet weather likely to continue until the end of the week, safety on our roads is a priority.
Driving in the kind of wet weather the capital city is experiencing this week requires extra caution and focus.
Rekord has compiled some safety tips for drivers to stay safe on the roads.
Slow down when the road is wet. Avoid slamming on the brakes as this may cause the car to glide.
Be prepared to move to the left shoulder in case of badly-timed overtaking from the opposite direction.
Don’t panic when you see oil patches. Slow down gradually and steer through them.
Approach bends in the road with caution with both hands on the steering wheel.
Increase your safety cushion by doubling your following distance from three to six seconds.
Turn on your headlights.
Be mindful of other vehicles behind you as they are difficult to see through rain-spattered windows.
Be extra careful within the first thirty minutes after the rain has started as grime and oil on the road surface mix with water and could cause the road to be slippery.
The SA Weather Service said rain would continue on Wednesday with a 60% chance of showers expected.
On Thursday the probability of rain would drop to 30%. “No hail is expected. However, the rain might cause flooding on roads that are badly maintained,” said forecaster Madimetja Thelma.
