The National Road Safety Authority is urging drivers to exercise increased vigilance, especially in mountainous areas where fog may reduce visibility.
Speaking to Adom News, Public Relations Officer Pearl Adusu emphasized the importance of proper vehicle lighting systems, particularly white and yellow lights, to improve visibility in foggy or rainy conditions.
Madam Adusu also advised against speeding, as reduced visibility makes it harder to react to sudden obstacles or road changes. She also advised drivers to follow the three-second rule, ensuring a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front, to allow sufficient time for braking and emergency maneuvers, saying that adherence to these guidelines could significantly improve road safety during the rainy season.
Safety tips for drivers during the rainy season
The rainy season presents several risk factors, especially in Ghana, that drivers cannot afford to ignore. During this period, road accidents tend to increase primarily due to reduced road friction and poor visibility.
Here are five safety tips to guide drivers during the rainy season.
Avoid speeding through standing water
When driving through standing water, reduce speed to avoid hydroplaning, where you lose traction and skid across the road. Drive around water-collected areas by changing lanes or steering safely. If hydroplaning occurs, gently release your foot off the accelerator and steer in a safe direction, avoid sudden turns, and avoid slamming on brakes.
Avoid sudden brakes
To avoid skidding on slippery, wet roads, steer clear of rapid curves and apply abrupt brakes. To prepare for such turns and regulate the speed appropriately, arm your vehicle with a dependable navigation system.
Drive at low speed
Don’t drive too fast in the rain, as the rains make the road slippery, reducing traction. If you need to brake quickly, especially for a full stop, it will take longer for the car to stop, but it won’t take longer if you drive slowly.
Avoid distractions
In Ghana, drivers often use their phones while driving, causing divided attention. To avoid this, focus on driving and avoid multitasking. Park in a secure area or use a hands-free device for phone calls, ensuring your two hands are in control of your steering wheel.
Keep the windows closed
Closing the car windows can prevent water from getting inside and wetting the steering wheel, gear, seats, or mats, which could make driving uncomfortable.
