Faizel Patel, Radio Islam News – 23-03-2018
While Heavy downpours continue to wreak havoc in parts of the country, driving in the rain can be quiet tricky and at times treacherous.
South Africa is a water scarce country and the rain has been welcomed. Yet, those who need to complete their daily commutes in the same weather, may not be as enthusiastic.
Rainy weather usually brings a number of challenges to the roads.
Managing director of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert says the rain can cause havoc on the roads.
“If motorists adopt a more defensive driving style, so in other words, change, slow down, and give other motorists a bit of lee ways so that if they do make an error, they are not going to be caught unawares. One of the big things they must do on highways is increase their following distance and travel with lights.”
Herbert says by adopting these simple actions, motorists can ensure that they can arrive at their destination safely.
Below are some driving tips from Eugene Herbert:
- People driving too slowly: while slowing down in rainy weather is important, some drivers may take this to the extreme. Looking ahead by up to 12 seconds (where visibility permits) will enable you to quickly see these drivers and move around them where possible. If you cannot safely move around, maintain a larger following distance and patiently wait for an opportunity to do so.
- People driving too fast: do additional checks in your review mirror to quickly see when a driver like this is approaching and move out of their way if you can safely do so. If you are on the highway, avoid using the right hand lane, which is where they are more likely to be.
- Traffic lights not working: this is common when there has been a large amount of rain. Traffic lights are to be treated like four way stops but with even more caution. In larger intersections many drivers are uncertain of when to go or even reluctant to wait their turn. Never take it for granted that a driver will stop when they are supposed to.
- Flooding: avoid areas which are prone to flooding. If you do come across a section of road where there is fast flowing water rather turn around or pull over if you can safely do so. It only takes 15cm of water to lift a car off the tar.
- Hydroplaning: if you start to hydroplane slowly take your foot off the accelerator and concentrate on steering straight. Never brake.
- Skidding: If you do start to skid, do not brake but take your foot off the accelerator. Gently steer in the direction you do want to go until you regain control.
- Be patient: do not let reckless or impatient drivers take your attention away from the road. Rather accept that these drivers are inevitable and rather focus your attention on getting to your destination safely.
0 Comments