Driving in the rain in South Africa can be risky, with wet, slippery roads increasing the chances of accidents. Whether you’re a new driver or have years of experience, the unpredictability of South Africa’s rainy season (and Mzansi’s drivers) makes it essential to exercise extra caution. In this blog post, we’re sharing the top 5 tips to help you stay safe when driving in rainy conditions.
Slow down and keep a safe following distance
When the roads are wet, your car’s tyres lose some of their grip, making it harder to stop or turn quickly. 1 of the simplest yet most effective safety tips is to slow down. Lower speeds allow for better control and improve your car’s traction on wet surfaces. Together with slowing down, it’s essential to increase your following distance. On a dry road, the rule of thumb is to maintain a 3-second gap between you and the car ahead. In the rain, double that distance to give yourself more time to react.
Turn on your headlights
Turning on your headlights during rainy weather helps you see the road better and, more importantly, makes you more visible to other drivers. While many South African drivers forget to do this, it’s vital during rainfall. Use low-beam headlights, as high beams can reflect off the wet road and decrease your visibility. Remember, visibility can drop significantly when it rains, so the extra caution can make all the difference.
Avoid sudden movements
Rainy weather requires smooth and careful handling of the steering wheel, brakes, and accelerator. Sudden movements can easily lead to skidding, especially on roads with poor drainage or loose gravel. When you need to slow down, do so gradually, applying the brakes gently. If you feel your car starting to slide, don’t panic; keep a steady grip on the wheel, take your foot off the accelerator, and steer in the direction you want to go. Overcorrecting can worsen a skid, so stay calm and handle your car with care.
Keep your windscreen clear
A clear windscreen is crucial for safe driving in the rain. Make sure your windscreen wipers are in good working condition, as old or worn-out wipers can reduce visibility. Use the car’s demister to prevent fogging on the inside of the glass. When it rains, the air inside your car becomes humid, causing the windows to fog up. By regularly checking and maintaining your wipers, you’ll have a clear view of the road, even in heavy rainfall.
Watch out for standing water
Driving through deep puddles or areas with standing water can be hazardous. These areas may cause aquaplaning, which happens when your tyres lose contact with the road and glide on the water. Aquaplaning can lead to a total loss of control, so if you encounter a waterlogged section of the road, try to avoid it. If that’s not possible, drive slowly and steadily without accelerating or braking abruptly.
Driving in the rain requires extra caution, especially on South Africa’s often unpredictable roads. By slowing down, maintaining a safe distance, using headlights, and taking care when handling your vehicle, you can significantly reduce your risk on wet roads. Rain or shine, knowing you’re insured is another way to drive with peace of mind. At King Price, we offer car insurance that protects you against the unexpected. With cover you can rely on, you’ll stay safe, whatever the weather.
Click here or WhatsApp us on 0860 50 50 50 for a commitment-free insurance quote.
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Psst… This blog provides general info only, and doesn’t count as financial or product advice from King Price or our legal and compliance experts. Remember, all our premiums are risk-profile-dependent, and T’s and C’s apply. Our most up-to-date KPPD (policy wording) can always be found here.
Our website T’s and C’s can be found here.
