Our beautiful country is blessed with beautiful sunny weather – most of the time. However, when the rainy season hits, the amount of accidents on the roads increases. Many drivers don’t realise that their driving behaviour needs to adjust to meet the conditions of the road.

Despite the reason for being impatient when driving in rainy weather, it is never a good idea to drive recklessly, especially in weather that hinders your vision on the road.

• Plan in advance! For those who need to be on the road, it is essential to plan for the drive! Driving in bad weather usually means a longer trip time and is more stressful than driving in favourable conditions. You definitely do not want to have to speed through a storm to reach your destination!
• The challenges. Heavy rain presents challenges such as reduced visibility, reduced steering ability, reduced traction of the vehicle’s tyres on the road and a need for an increase in space between other vehicles so that appropriate action can be taken before a collision occurs.
• Don’t be caught in the storm. The best way to be safe on the roads during bad weather is to avoid driving at all. If there is an extreme weather system moving through the area in which you intend to drive, and you can afford to wait it out, then rather do so.

But what if…? If you do happen to get caught on the road in bad weather conditions, it is important to follow the following safe driving techniques:

1. Switch your lights on – see and be seen!
2. Keep two hands firmly on the steering wheel and your eyes on the road at all times
3. Beware of reduced visibility, steering ability and traction
4. Avoid unsafe overtaking in poor visibility

5. Reduce your speed
6. Increase following distance
7. Obey guidance from road and traffic officials on road closures
8. Be prepared for emergencies and unforeseen stops
9. If you cannot see ahead, you should not dresive.

This video from Arrive Alive serves as a good reminder of the above points:

Did you know? MiWay car insurance clients receive warning notifications before a hailstorm is likely to hit their area. We also offer our clients a quick and easy online hail claim process – just in case the damage has already been done.

This is just another way we enable our clients to live their way!

Apply for an insurance quote and see how much you can save on your car insurance premium every month.