10 safety tips when driving in the rain

Jonathan Zovoe

The Federal Road Safety Corps has reminded all motorists and other road users to be cautious on the roads as the rainy season has set in.

This is to ensure sanity on the highways during the season even as the Corps also harps on the need for strict compliance with traffic rules and regulations among road users especially during this period.

According to the FRSC’s Public Education Officer, Corps Commander Imoh Etuk, the corps was concerned over the attitude of many drivers.

However, here are a few tips to drive safely during this period according towikiHow;

1. Keep both hands on the steering wheel at all times!

Keep all distractions, such as cell phones or even the radio, off and away from you. While focus to your front do Take a Look in Back View Mirror as well Right Hand side & Left Hand side so that you get an 360 degree over view what is happening around any mud slide or falling tree, electric pole, hanging electrical wires , or in coming hazard etc

2. Turn on your headlights.

This will make it easier for you to see what is in front of you; thus, preventing any accidents.

3. Keep a minimum of a good five car length from the car in front of you.

You never know what other drivers are going to do or what could happen to you! If that feels too close or too far a rule of thumb is 1 second of following distance per 10 mph (16 km/h). That holds true especially in bad weather.

4. Drive at or below the speed limit.

To the extent that you are comfortable with, and can see far enough in front of you to appropriately make driving decisions.

5. Be aware that the maximum speed at which you can drive is DIRECTLY related to your tires.

Be sure to know the condition of your tyres. Radial tires have better traction than the old bias ply polyester tires, but even they lose their ability to grip wet pavement and channel water out as the tread wears out.

6. Be aware of hydroplaning.

This is where your vehicle travels on top of the water and has NO or very little contact with the ground. Your traction is reduced significantly. To safely get out of a hydroplaning situation let off the gas and steer straight or slightly in the direction you must go. Do not make sudden motions and remain calm.

7. Avoid flooded roads.

Never drive through standing or flowing water in a road way unless you have no choice or you are able to follow someone else to judge the depth of the water. Flooding the engine of your car can cause the engine to stall, and deep water can actually float your car and take it off the roadway.

8. Turn on the defroster if the windshield begins to fog.

In hot, muggy weather, air conditioned air (which cannot contain as much moisture) will usually clear the inside of the windshield faster than non air conditioned.

9. Be aware that brakes can be affected by water.

Wet drum type brakes are especially prone to decreased stopping power after driving through deep water.

10. Watch for splashing from potholes and pools of water that accumulate at clogged storm drain pipes and low areas of the pavement.

Highways also develop “ruts” where the heaviest traffic tracks, and you may be able to position your vehicle while remaining in your lane to avoid these.