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From all the Facebook posts and Instagram stories that flood social media, it is evident that rain and thunderstorms are an exciting time for visitors, residents, and citizens of the UAE. While pretty to look at, driving in these adverse conditions requires an added amount of attention and awareness.
With reduced visibility and lessened grip, Dubai Police reports as many as one accident per minute. In February 2017, in a span of eight hours, Dubai Police recorded 5,268 calls and a whopping 479 accidents. The following tips aim to keep not only you and those with you safe, but those around you as well.
Avoid the Edges
Water collects on both sides of the road, the fast lane and slow lane, and so especially on highways, it is safer to stick to the center lanes. Not only will this reduce your chances of encountering a water pond, but it will also prevent you from jumping a kerb on smaller streets.
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Aquaplaning
A common occurrence and a great contributor to the shocking number of accidents, aquaplaning is a situation in which the car loses contact with the road and is merely floating on the water above it. Although instinct would have you mash the brake pedal as hard as possible, an act that would induce a skid, the correct thing to do is to ease off the accelerator and turn the car's steering wheel to the direction you want go until the tires touch the ground again.
Distance
A given factor, especially with the slippery tarmac, a distance of at least five cars is essential to compensate for the longer stopping distances. Needless to mention, it is also advisable to stay well within the speed limits and avoid unnecessary maneuvers.
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Lights
A few seconds is all it takes to walk around the car and do a quick check to make sure all your lights are working as they should. Pay attention to headlights, fog lights, and turn signals, as not only do you want to see clearly but you want to ensure you are seen as well.
Seating
Adjust your seating position if necessary to gain a better view of what's happening around you. What's important, however, is that you ensure you keep both hands on the steering wheel at all times. Come a concealed water pond and the last thing you want is to lose control of the vehicle and plough into the barrier.
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Tires
An important and highly overlooked aspect to driving in the rain, tires are the only touchpoint between a vehicle and the road. Ensuring there is sufficient tread on the tires (3-4mm) will equate to added confidence while steering and stopping on the slippery blacktop.
From the team at YallaMotor, stay safe and keep those driving in the rain selfies for later!
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