Switch your headlights on and drive safe – Public Safety
Road safety experts warn motorists on how to drive safely in rainy weather conditions, and remind them to switch on their headlights.
With the recent heavy rains and some predicting it will continue for the next couple of days, law enforcement agencies and those in the motor industry cautioned motorists to drive safely.
Mogale City’s Public Safety Assistant Manager Jimmy Keet said motorists should drive slowly and keep a safe following distance to avoid crashes.
Keet also warned it is extremely dangerous to drive without your headlights on.
“It doesn’t mean if you can see other motorists, they can see you. Switching on your lights has two advantages, where you can see where you are driving, and for other drivers to see you,” Keet warned.
The Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA) chairperson Dewald Ranft added rainy weather significantly increases road risks.
“Wet roads reduce traction, increasing stopping distances and the likelihood of skidding. Hydroplaning is when tyres lose contact with the road due to a layer of water, which is a serious risk and motorists should reduce speeds significantly in wet weather to avoid losing control,” advised Ranft.
He concluded with the following tips:
• Avoid sudden braking and sharp turns – brake gently to prevent skidding
• Watch out for puddles – they could be hiding in deep potholes or debris
• Check your tyres – ensure they have adequate tread depth and are correctly inflated
• Keep your windscreen wipers in good condition – streaking or skipping wipers should be replaced
