When the rainy season arrives, driving becomes a bigger challenge.
Heavy rains bring poor visibility, slippery roads, and sudden floods.
For drivers of private vehicles, public utility vehicles (PUVs), and motorcycle riders, this season requires extra care.
Whether you drive for personal reasons or as part of your job, it’s important to know how to stay safe on wet and flooded roads.
There’s no extra cost for these safety habits—just awareness and preparation.
Why Rainy Season Driving Is More Dangerous
Driving in the rain is risky for everyone.
Rain reduces road visibility and creates slippery surfaces.
Floods can suddenly appear, especially in low-lying areas.
Even experienced drivers can face problems like skidding, hydroplaning, or engine failure.
Many people need to drive during rainy days to go to work, school, or run errands.
If you are a PUV driver or delivery rider, you may have no choice but to stay on the road.
That’s why understanding the dangers and how to avoid them is essential.
Preparing Your Vehicle Before You Hit the Road
The first step to safe rainy-season driving is making sure your vehicle is ready.
1. Check Your Tires
- Make sure your tires are not bald.
- Tire treads should be at least 1.6 mm deep for proper grip.
- Check tire pressure. Low pressure reduces control, while overinflated tires can increase hydroplaning risk.
2. Inspect Windshield Wipers and Washers
- If your wipers leave streaks or make noise, replace them.
- Top up your washer fluid. Dirty windshields make it harder to see.
3. Test Lights and Signals
- Headlights, brake lights, hazard lights, and turn signals must work properly.
- Use your headlights, even during the day, to improve visibility.
4. Brake Check
- Your brakes should feel firm and responsive.
- Replace worn brake pads immediately.
- If your brakes make noise, have them inspected by a mechanic.
5. Keep an Emergency Kit in the Car
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- First-aid kit
- Basic tools
- Phone charger
- Drinking water and snacks
- Raincoat or umbrella
Driving Safely in Heavy Rain
Once you’re on the road, these driving habits can save lives.
1. Slow Down
- Wet roads reduce traction.
- Drive slower than you usually would.
- Slowing down gives you more time to react.
2. Keep a Safe Distance
- Increase your following distance.
- On wet roads, your stopping distance can double.
- Stay at least 4-5 seconds behind the car in front of you.
3. Use Headlights and Fog Lights
- Turn on your headlights, even in light rain.
- Fog lights help you see better in heavy rain but avoid using high beams.
- High beams reflect light and reduce visibility.
4. Avoid Sudden Movements
- Steer gently.
- Brake softly.
- Accelerate slowly.
- Sudden moves can cause skidding.
5. Watch Out for Pedestrians and Motorcycles
- Rain makes it harder for pedestrians to hear or see cars.
- Motorcycles can slip more easily.
- Be patient and give them space.
How to Handle Hydroplaning
Hydroplaning happens when your tires lose contact with the road and ride on water instead.
You lose control and may skid or spin.
What to Do if You Hydroplane:
- Stay calm.
- Do NOT brake hard or turn suddenly.
- Ease off the accelerator slowly.
- Keep steering straight until you regain control.
- If you need to turn, do it gently.
How to Prevent Hydroplaning:
- Keep your tires in good condition.
- Slow down when it rains heavily.
- Avoid driving through puddles when possible.
- Drive in the tracks of the car ahead of you.
- Don’t use cruise control on wet roads.
Surviving Sudden Floods on the Road
Flash floods can happen without warning.
It’s best to avoid flooded roads completely.
But if you must drive through a flooded area, follow these steps.
1. Stop and Assess the Flood
- Get out (if safe) and check the water depth.
- If water is above the middle of your tire, do NOT attempt to cross.
- Even shallow water can stall engines and sweep away vehicles.
2. Drive Slowly but Steadily
- Use low gear to keep engine revs high.
- Drive at 3-4 kph.
- Create a small wave in front of your vehicle.
- Do not stop in the middle of the flood.
3. After Crossing, Test Your Brakes
- Gently pump the brakes while moving slowly.
- This helps dry them out.
4. Check Your Vehicle After Driving Through Floods
- Listen for strange sounds.
- Check for debris stuck under the car.
- If water entered your engine, do not restart it.
- Call for professional help immediately.
Visibility Matters: How to See and Be Seen
Rain reduces visibility for everyone on the road.
Seeing clearly and making sure others can see you is vital.
1. Use Headlights, Even in Light Rain
- They help you see better and let other drivers see you.
- Avoid high beams in rain or fog.
2. Keep Windows Clear
- Use the defogger or air conditioning.
- If fog builds up, lower the windows slightly for better airflow.
3. Replace Worn Wipers Immediately
- Even a little streak can block your view at night.
- Always carry spare washer fluid.
Emergency Situations: What to Do
If you are stuck in deep floodwaters or the engine stalls, stay calm.
1. Turn on Hazard Lights
- This alerts other drivers.
- It signals for help.
2. Exit the Vehicle if Necessary
- If water rises inside, leave the car quickly.
- Move to higher ground.
- Do not waste time gathering things.
- Your safety comes first.
3. Call for Help
- Contact emergency services.
- Let someone know your location.
- Stay visible. Use a flashlight or reflective item if it’s dark.
Preventive Measures Before Leaving Home
Sometimes, the best way to stay safe is not to drive at all.
Check the weather forecast.
If heavy rain or floods are expected, delay your trip if possible.
Inform family or friends of your travel plans and estimated arrival.
Bring extra clothing, towels, and blankets if you expect delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How deep is too deep to drive through floodwater?
If water is higher than halfway up your tires (around 6 inches), do not drive through it.
Deeper water can cause your engine to stall or even float your car away.
2. What is the safest speed when driving in heavy rain?
Reduce your speed by at least 30%.
If the speed limit is 60 kph, drive around 40-45 kph in heavy rain.
This helps prevent hydroplaning and gives you more reaction time.
3. What gear should I use when driving through floods?
Use low gear (first or second gear).
This keeps the engine revs high and reduces the chance of stalling.
If you drive an automatic, use the “L” or “2” mode.
4. Is it okay to use hazard lights while driving in the rain?
No, you should only use hazard lights when stopped or during an emergency.
Use headlights and fog lights instead to stay visible.
Hazard lights while moving can confuse other drivers.
Conclusion
Driving during the rainy season brings extra challenges. But with the right habits and preparation, you can stay safe.
Remember:
- Check your vehicle before leaving.
- Drive slowly and smoothly.
- Avoid flooded roads when possible.
- Know what to do if your car hydroplanes or stalls in water.
Your life and your passengers’ lives are always more important than being on time. Take every precaution. Drive smart. Stay safe on the road this rainy season.