Thirteen tips for inclement-weather driving
Important tips to keep you safe when you are driving in the wet weather.
The bad weather affecting many parts of South Africa will require extra vigilance from motorists.
According to the Automobile Association (AA), “Now is not the time to take any chances with safety. Crashes in wet, icy conditions are common and we advise everyone to heed the call to drive safely.”
Check out these pictures of snowfall around South Africa.
“Switch on your headlights, maintain a good following distance from the car ahead of you and don’t speed. Importantly, always wear your safety belt and ensure all children and passengers are also strapped in,” the AA said.
Motorists are warned not to take chances by crossing low-lying bridges as the fast-flowing water could cause them to be swept downstream. Take a look at the floods in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN); emergency services are on high alert to rescue KZN flood casualties.
Tips for driving safely in rainy conditions:
1 Ensure your headlights and brake lights are working
2 Switch on your headlights, especially when natural light is low. Remember this also alerts other drivers to your presence on the road
3 Ensure your windscreen and wipers are in good condition
4 Check that your tyres are in good shape
5 Don’t speed and always maintain a safe following distance
6 Buckle up
7 Don’t cross low-lying bridges, even if you think your car can make it
8 Slow down before entering water holes (puddles) on the road as this may cause the car to “pull” to the side without warning, and the water may be deeper than it looks
9 Avoid areas where there are known to be adverse conditions
10 Adjust your speed for the condition of the road. Just because a road sign says the speed limit is 120km/h, it doesn’t mean it is safe to travel at this speed in all conditions
11 Concentrate on the road, not on anything else, such as your electronic device
12 If you are going to an area known to have bad weather, and there is a possibility you may get stuck for extended periods, remember to take extra blankets, appropriate clothing, and refreshments, and ensure your tank has enough fuel for the journey
13 Keep your cellphone charged in case of an emergency.
