As we head into the rainy months and the festive season approaches, road safety takes on new urgency, particularly when it comes to vehicle maintenance and tyre care.

Wet-weather driving poses challenges that can quickly become dangerous if a car is unprepared.

Tyre tread and pressure are critical to maintaining control on slick roads. Drivers should regularly inspect their tyres and ensure the tread depth is well above the legal minimum of 1.6mm, as deeper grooves disperse water and prevent aquaplaning.

Under-inflated tyres are risky in wet conditions, as they distort in shape, reducing the effectiveness of water channels and increasing the likelihood of losing traction.

Aquaplaning, when a car’s tyres lose contact with the road and skim over a layer of water, remains a common hazard in heavy rain. Proper tyre inflation, slower driving speeds and adequate following distances are the best defences against it.

Motorists should also remember that stopping distances on wet roads can double compared to dry conditions, meaning a car travelling at 100km/h could need as much as 140m to come to a complete stop.

Equally important are properly working brakes. Be alert to warning signs, such as squealing, grinding, or a spongy pedal feel. These signs imply that the brake pads or components need attention. In wet conditions, compromised brakes can drastically increase the risk of accidents.

For those planning long-distance travel, ensuring balanced tyre wear is also key. Replacing all four tyres is ideal, but if you can replace only two, experts advise fitting the new ones to the rear axle for improved stability and control.

A simple wet weather safety check covering tyres, brakes, and wipers can go a long way in preventing mishaps.
Checking tyre pressure and tread depth, inspecting brake wear and fitting new wiper blades are all cost-effective ways to ensure a safer journey, especially when travelling on rain-soaked highways.

Good preparation and cautious driving can make all the difference when roads turn slippery.

Motorists should take proactive steps now to protect themselves and others before hitting the road this holiday season.