Gauteng, it’s your turn for rain! Tips for driving in hazardous weather conditions
Even though the rainy season has almost passed for Capetonians, the bad weather conditions is yet to start for the people of Gauteng. Weather conditions such as rain and hail can be hazardous on the road.
“South Africa is known for extreme cold and hot weather effects – from summer thunder and hail storms, to fog and mist, smoke from veld fires and strong winds. An unfortunate accident on our roads can happen at any given time due to various weather related hazards,” says Derek Wilson – the head of Hippo.co.za. He gives us some further tips on for driving during the rainy season and bad weather conditions.
Arrive Alive has accident statistics available on their website to spread awareness about how dangerous our roads can be. Not only is the upcoming festive season the most fatal time on our roads, but it also is the rainy season for most of the country, especially the busy parts such as Durban, Mpumalanga and Gauteng.
Wilson says, “We are on the road daily –Whether it’s for a business meeting, or family errands. It’s not surprising that road accidents are the single biggest cause of death or serious injury in our country. Having adequate insurance cover for your car and life should be seriously considered. You will be surprised at how affordable finding the right product at the right price for you can be.”
• Stay within the speed limit at all times, if it is raining – slow down.
• Don’t tailgate, especially when it’s raining – always stay at least three seconds behind the vehicle in front on you. If you are the one being tailgated, don’t slam on the brakes to teach the driver a lesson.
• Always drive with your headlights on during bad weather conditions – it will make your motor vehicle more visible.
• Don’t assume that trucks drive like cars. Trucks need more room to stop on dry roads, which makes it even more challenging when the roads are wet.
• Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.