WET WEATHER DRIVING Telesure MD, Thomas Creamer says that wet weather takes its toll on our

roads and motorists are urged to exercise caution and drive carefully. One of the major causes of road deaths and injuries in South Africa is driving in wet weather conditions, says Creamer. It is important that motorists adapt their driving accordingly when weather conditions deteriorate. Creamer says that during stormy conditions, it is more difficult to see other vehicles, road signs and the road itself so it is critical that motorists take steps so they can see and be seen. One of the most dangerous menaces of the road are flooding stormwater drains. Storm water drains flood when there is an excessive amount of water rushing into the culverts. A flood can also be caused when the storm water culvert is blocked by litter, rubble or tree branches, shrubs and so on. If you approach a flooding storm water drain, it is advisable to take your foot off the accelerator and let your speed drop gradually. Never use the brakes suddenly because this may cause the car to skid or aquaplane, advises Creamer. Thomas Creamer advises that if your vehicle does aquaplane dont slam on brakes. Rather gently take your foot off the accelerator and let your vehicle slow down until you regain control. It is also advisable to avoid the deepest water which is usually near the kerb, and remember to test your brakes when you are through the flooded area before you drive at normal speed again. Another wet weather peril to look out for is flash flooding rivers over low lying bridges. It is important that motorists do not attempt to cross a bridge or a road next to a river if the water seems too deep. Rather stop the car before entering the flooded area and check the water level ahead. Generally, if the water is deeper than the bottom of your doors or the bottom third of your wheels, it is inadvisable to attempt driving through it, says Creamer. Seek a detour rather than braving the flood and risking your life! Attempting to go through deep water can also damage your vehicles electronic control systems, creating a huge repair bill. In addition to these guidelines, motorists should also make sure that the following rules are adhered to:

Before embarking on a journey, make sure to check that windscreen wipers, headlights, hazard lights, rear lights, brake lights and indicators are working properly.

Drivers must also regularly clean their windshield and windows, on both the inside and outside. In addition to reducing visibility, rain creates slippery roads. Auto & General suggests regularly checking your tyres for cuts, bulges, bald patches and cracks. Also make sure to check your tyre pressure and tread depth. Many drivers do not realise how dangerous worn out or damaged tyres can be. Tyres are the only contact the vehicle has with the road, and poorly maintained ones can lead to fatal car accidents as well as breakdowns especially in wet weather conditions. Look out for the hidden hazards on the road like open manhole covers. When driving in rainy conditions, use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin. Maneuver gently, avoiding sudden braking or acceleration. To brake without locking your wheels, get into low gear earlier than normal, allow your speed to fall and use the brake pedal gently. A wet road surface means you'll take twice as long to stop, and so you need to be at least four seconds behind the vehicle in front.

When visibility is so limited that the edges of the road or other vehicles cannot be seen at a safe distance, it is time to pull over and wait for the rain to ease up, concludes Creamer.