Motorists are urged to take extra care on wet roads as emergency services continue to respond to serious and often preventable crashes during rainy weather.

Netcare 911 has issued a safety appeal, warning that many accidents occur because drivers underestimate how differently vehicles behave on wet surfaces.

“Every year, emergency medical services see the tragic consequences of rainy weather on our roads, often due to drivers not realising that cars handle very differently on wet road surfaces,” said Netcare 911 spokesperson Sarah Kekana.

She stressed that preparation is the first line of defence. Vehicles should be in good working condition, with particular attention paid to brakes, wheel alignment and tyre tread and pressure.

“When storms and heavy rainfall strike unexpectedly, visibility is often diminished. In terms of the National Road Traffic Act, windscreen wipers must be kept in good working order. Drivers should regularly check their wiper blades and replace them when necessary,” Kekana said

Kekana said rain also creates slippery and hazardous road surfaces, increasing the risk of skidding and loss of control.

“Drivers are advised to reduce speed significantly, increase following distance, switch on headlights and steer and brake gently.

“The most important principles of driving in wet weather are to slow down, keep a longer following distance and maintain visibility. Avoid harsh braking or sudden steering movements, and keep engine revs low to reduce the risk of skidding,” Kekana explained.

She went on to say that one of the most dangerous wet-weather hazards is aquaplaning, which occurs when a vehicle’s tyres lose contact with the road due to standing water.

“Aquaplaning can cause the steering to feel light or unresponsive, with the back of the car starting to drift. Drivers should stay calm, ease off the accelerator, avoid slamming on the brakes and only brake once control has returned.

“Following distance is another critical factor. While three car lengths may be sufficient in dry conditions, this should be doubled in wet weather to allow adequate stopping time.

“Drivers are also cautioned to keep well clear of trucks and buses, which produce heavy spray, take longer to stop and may not see smaller vehicles if they are too close.

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Kekana warned motorists not to take chances by driving through flooded or low-lying areas.

“Even shallow-looking water can be deeper than expected. It takes very little water for a vehicle to stall, get stuck or be washed away. Never attempt to cross flooded roads or low-lying bridges,” she said.

She added that checking weather forecasts and route updates before travelling can help motorists avoid dangerous conditions.

“Countless avoidable accidents happen each season when people underestimate the risks and gamble with their safety.

“The price of taking such chances is too high. Prioritise life and make the choice to stay safe on our roads.”

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