Staying safe on the roads when the rain comes
With the recent floods and heavy rain in many parts of the country, it’s important to take extra precautions when you are on the roads in wet weather.
Safety starts before you drive and your goal should be to see and be seen. Matrix has provided a few simple, but important, tips to remember when caught in the downpour:
- Take your time: Slowing down is the only way to keep your vehicle from hydroplaning. Also remember that one of the most dangerous times to drive is soon after it begins to rain, as oils on roadway make for slick conditions. Waiting a few minutes, rather than rushing to your destination, can be a safer plan when it is raining.
- Turn your lights on: Turn your headlights on to help other vehicles see you – day and night. Make sure your headlights, taillights, brake lights and indicators are functioning properly so other drivers can see you in the downpour.
- Give other vehicles more space: Add 1-2 extra seconds of following time in the rain, which gives you and the cars behind you more time to react to traffic.
- Make sure your windshield wipers work: Replace windshield wiper inserts that leave streaks or don’t clear the glass in a single swipe.
- Tyres: Proper tyre tread depth and inflation are vitally important to maintaining good traction on wet roads. Check tread depth and tyre pressure, including the spare, at least once a month.
