Many of us have various reasons why we dislike the rainy season, from causing traffic jams to triggering floods. The rains are here, and while we cannot stop them, we must take precautions to stay safe.
Seven people were confirmed dead following Wednesday’s heavy downpour in Kampala and its surroundings.
Just as it is difficult for pedestrians to navigate during the rains, motorists also face challenges.
Here are some essential road safety tips for driving in the rainy season:
Before You Drive:
Check your vehicle: Ensure your headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals are working properly.
Inspect your tires: Make sure your tires have adequate tread depth and are properly inflated.
Check your windshield wipers: Ensure your wipers are in good condition and clean your windshield to maintain visibility.
Plan your route: Check for potential road closures or traffic delays due to heavy rain or flooding.
While Driving:
Reduce your speed: Wet roads significantly increase braking distances and the risk of skidding, so drive slower than usual.
Maintain a safe following distance: Increase your following distance to allow for more time to react to changing conditions.
Turn on your headlights: Even during daylight hours, turn on your headlights to improve visibility for yourself and other drivers.
Avoid potholes and puddles: Be cautious of potholes and puddles, as they can hide deeper hazards or cause hydroplaning.
Be aware of your surroundings: Pay close attention to other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists, who may be more vulnerable in wet conditions.
Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns: Gentle braking and steering maneuvers are crucial to maintaining control on wet roads.
Avoid using cruise control: Cruise control can be dangerous on wet roads, as it can cause the vehicle to accelerate uncontrollably if traction is lost.
Signal your intentions early: Signal your turns and lane changes well in advance to give other drivers ample time to react.
Stay focused: Remain attentive to changing weather and road conditions to ensure a safe journey.
Be mindful of other road users: Give vulnerable road users, such as cyclists and pedestrians, extra space.
