Don’t chase the storm!

The destructible storms in Cape Town have claimed many lives and destroyed hundreds of homes over the last month. Even though we cannot prevent a storm, we can prepare for it. With the current extreme weather conditions being experienced in the Western Cape, we all need to take extra care to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe.

So, whether you’re on your way to work or taking the kids to school, prioritising your safety is of utmost importance and can also decrease the chances of causing an accident.

With this in mind, it is essential to have home insurance and car insurance especially when homes are destroyed by natural disasters or cars are damaged by accidents. caused by impatient drivers.

These tips can help prevent you from getting into a sticky situation:

• Only move forward if you can clearly see what is ahead of you.
• Avoid being on the roads during heavy, stormy weather. If you’re already en route, try and get to higher ground! Be sure to do the same if you are parked in a basement, provided it is safe to do so.
• Do not allow your car to mist up.Switch your demisters on to clear up your windscreen for visibility.
• Look out for pedestrians and other road users.Motorists are not the only ones on the road.
• Increase the driving distancebetween you and other motorists for added safety. This way, you can stop in time.
• Keep your head- and hazard lights on at all times for better visibility.Check that your tyres are not worn and make sure that your spare tyre is safe for use, too. Be sure to check that your brakes and brake lights are in working condition as well.
• Don’t slam on your brakes.Stop gradually by taking your foot off the accelerator to avoid skidding.
• Don’t drive through deep waters or attempt to cross a stretch of water – it may be deeper than it appears and thus cause damage to your car. Some roads may be closed off to motorists, so remember that they are closed for a reason.

Remain alert at all times and be aware of your surroundings. Should you get stuck or experience problems, switch on your hazard lights and signal or call for help immediately.

For added precaution, stay informed through radio, television and reliable social media pages. There will be frequent updates on changing weather conditions to warn drivers against dangerous situations.

A storm may ultimately result in flooding, depending on its severity and duration. However, making sure you stay ahead of it through the news is beneficial and can save you a lot of money if you prevent severe damage to your car.