LISTEN: N2 and R102 wet and slippery – caution advised

MOTORISTS are being advised to take extra precaution if travelling on the N2 and the R102 between Empangeni and Mtunzini.

This after the ZO recieved a number of reports relating to wet and slippery road conditions as heavy downpours are being experienced in certain areas.

Flooding along the R102 was reported this morning between Gingindlovu and Empangeni as vehicles were backed up.

A truck reportedly jackknifed on the N2 (north bound) between Mtunzini and Empangeni.

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Three vehicles were also involved in an accident at the Oilco Intersection in Empangeni a short while ago.

Arrive Alive have in the past issue out general tips for driving in the rain:

• Increase the three-second rule to six seconds to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead of you.

• If it is raining and the roads are wet, slow down. Take your foot off the accelerator and let your speed drop gradually.

• Never use the brakes suddenly because this may cause the car to skid.

• Only move towards the shoulder if you are able to see clearly 150m ahead of you. Keep in mind that pedestrians may be walking on the shoulder to avoid mud next to the surface of the road.

• Beware of oil patches. Don’t panic. Do not jam your brakes, just steer through. In most cases, the patches will be small.

LISTEN: https://soundcloud.com/zululand-observer/wet-conditions-and-heavy-rains-on-n2

• Always change to a lower gear before you take a bend, especially a sharp bend. Your speed should be at its slowest as you enter the bend and both your hands should be on the steering wheel. This slow in/fast out technique gives you most control when driving around a bend.

• Turn on your headlights.

• Be careful of other vehicles to the rear and in blind spot areas as they are especially difficult to see through rain-spattered windows.

• Use your low-beam headlights to see and be seen. Wait a short while after the rain begins before using your windshield wipers because the blades may smear.

• Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.

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