Drivers warned: First summer rains make roads slick and hazardous

As the first significant rainfall of the summer graces South Africa, many drivers are faced with not only the treacherous conditions typical of wet roads but also an increased risk due to residual oil and rubber build-up from the winter months.

The weekend rains have served as a reminder that as temperatures rise, so too does the level of caution needed behind the wheel.

With oils and rubbers that have accumulated over winter finally lifted but not completely washed away, roads can be particularly perilous for motorists.

Eugene Herbert, the CEO of MasterDrive, is urging drivers to exercise heightened awareness and care as they navigate these slippery stretches. “If you do find the roads more slippery than expected, follow these tips: the most important thing is to gradually reduce your speed. Do not brake harshly and suddenly. Keep both hands on the steering wheel,” Herbert advises.

Tips for driving in the rain

• Before leaving, check your wiper blades to ensure that they have not deteriorated over winter.
• Give yourself more travel time so you do not have to rush in bad weather.
• Adjust your speed to suit the conditions, however, do not slow down unnecessarily as this is just as dangerous.
• Do not use cruise control.
• Turn on your headlights.
• Brake earlier and with more caution.
• Avoid water which has pooled on the roads.
• If you cannot avoid this, drive through it slowly in case there is hidden debris or potholes.
• Leave additional following distance.
• Driving recklessly and speeding increases chances of hydroplaning.
• If you hydroplane, slowly lift your foot from the accelerator but do not brake harshly or move your steering wheel violently.
• Consider going for driver training on a skip pan to learn how to react if you do lose control during rainy weather.

IOL