Bengaluru Rain: Safety tips for driving in wet weather

For the past two days Bengaluru has been witnessing light to moderate rains and cloudy skies due to the effect of cyclone Mandous in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. While the weather reports suggest bursts of heavy rain over the next few days in Bengaluru, here are some key safety tips that will help you drive better in this weather.

Drive slower than usual: Drive at a speed below the recommended speed limit even if the road is empty. This aids in avoiding skidding and makes it easier to brake to a standstill. Credit: BK Janardhan/DH Photo

Check if your car tyres are in good condition: Try to stick a 10 rupee coin into the tyre tread. If you cannot see the golden ring, your tyre is good to go. (If you don't have one, you can also use your car key). Credit: Andrea Piacquadio/Pexels

Turn on the air conditioner: To ensure that your windows do not get fogged up while driving in rain, you should turn on your AC and set temperature at the same level as it is outside. Credit: Kaboompics.com/Pexels

Turn on the headlights: Heavy rains hinder visibility. Hence, it's recommended to turn on your headlights so that you can see better and keep yourself and others safe. Credit: DH Pool Photo

Have functional wipers: Make sure your car wipers are fully functional. This helps you have clear visibility while driving. Credit: Matheus Bertelli/Pexels

Maintain double the distance with the vehicle ahead: Ensure you maintain two cars length of distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. This gives you enough time to brake gently. Credit: SK Dinesh/DH Photo

Never brake hard: Brake gently, else, your car is more likely to skid and you will lose control in an instant. Cars with ABS have a better advantage while braking in the rain. Credit: DH Pool Photo

Avoid Puddles of water: Hydroplaning, which happens when the water on the road makes the tyres lose contact with the surface is one of the most common causes of accidents on wet roads and this prevents the brakes from working. Credit: Pushkar V/DH Photo

Don’t Accelerate when skidding (Hydroplaning): Immediately stop accelerating to help slow down your car. Try to steer the wheels to break out of hydroplaning and regain control of your car. Credit: BK Janardhan/DH Photo

Prefer waiting over driving: Being 15 minutes late to your work or home is better than you ending up in the hospital. Be patient when it rains heavily and try to wait it out. Credit: BK Janardhan/DH Photo