We have rain in almost every day now and driving in a heavy rain could become a very challenging moments for all of us. For motorists, here are some tips from Aswata:
1. Make sure all vehicle lights are working properly
Make sure all vehicle lights, such as headlights, fog lamps, turning signal are working properly and use standard bulbs. Turn on the head lights of your vehicle when driving in a heavy rain. Those lights help other people to identify and easily see your car. Use the hazard lamp only when you need to pull over in an emergency situation.
2. Check the tire pressure & tire groove
Check you vehicle’s tires condition at least once a week. Tires that are inflate properly and have wearable groove reduce the risks of aquaplaning and tire slipped. Do not use weary tires
3. Make sure the vehicle control systems are functioning properly
Make sure that all of your vehicle control systems such as the steering, accelerator, brake, and clutch are always in their best conditions. Give extra care of those important systems especially in a rainy season to anticipate critical moments or other people’s mishaps that could lead to accidents on the road.
4. Lower your vehicle speed in a heavy rain
This will reduce the risk of slip tires that caused by a mix of water and oil on the tarmac surface. Lower speed ensures your car to have more tire contacts and gives a stronger tire grip.
5. Keep a safe distance with another vehicle.
By keeping a safe distance you have more space to safely stopping your vehicle, which means less risk of crashing into another vehicle, especially in a panic braking situation.
6. Keep your engine speed in the right RPM
When you face an uphill road in a heavy rain, do not press the accelerator pedal too harshly to maintain the engine’s optimum torque. Keep the engine speed at an approximately 2.500 rpm for gasoline engines and 1.800 rpm for diesel engines to avoid skidding tires.
7. Do not deliberately go into the flood
When you force your vehicle to pass through deep water, the engine’s air intake may suck water into it, stopping the engine (water hammer effect) and you will find your car stuck in the middle of the flood. Please be aware that car insurance will not cover damages caused by this kind of situation.
8. Always plan your routes
Plan your routes before you start driving. Avoid areas that are surely affected by the flood in a rainy season. Look for information on the radio and do not play around with your gadgets when driving. Pull over if you need to phone or texting someone or seeking for information via mobile internet.
