Six tips to remember when driving in wet conditions

With heavy rain expected to last until tomorrow, drivers are warned to take extra caution on the roads when travelling.

SA weather forecaster Julius Mahlangu said there would be 80 per cent rainfall in coastal areas and 60 per cent in KwaZulu-Natal.

Also read: Severe weather causing floods, uprooting trees on the Dolphin Coast

Mathlango added that there were warnings of flooding in coastal areas today.

However, the wind speed is expected to remain  at low of between 15-20 knots throughout the day.

Here are six tips to remember when driving in heavy rain:

1. Adjust your seat – Ideally you should sit no more closer than 10 inches from the steering wheel. You should be positioned close enough to maintain a bend in your elbows.
2. . Be prepared for skidding – If you skid, avoid slamming on the brakes. Although this is usually an immediate response, slamming on the brakes could upset your car’s balance and cause you to lose control. Rather look and steer in the direction you want to go.
3.  Know when to pull over – When you cannot see the bends on the road or vehicles in front of you, turn on your hazards and pull over.
4. Be aware of big vehicles- Tractors and trucks are more prone to swerve should the wind speed increases. The drivers could have difficulty staying in their lane. Avoid overtaking and increase your following distance.
5. Protect yourself from hydroplaning – IPSS Medical Rescues Paul Herbst said hydroplaning occurs when a car is traveling too fast in heavy rain, causing the tires to drive in a thin layer of water rather than grip the surface of the road.  It makes steering and braking difficult. Slowing down is the only way to avoid hydroplaning.
6. Back to basics – Keep your headlights on, maintain a safe following distance, drive slower and wear you seat belt at all times.