The monsoon has arrived in many parts of the country, while it is imminent in the rest. With monsoons come many challenges that drivers would face on a daily basis. Flooded roads, limited visibility, wet surfaces, and hidden potholes are some of the challenges you as a driver will have to face in the coming weeks. Here are some tips that will help you avoid extensive damage to your vehicles and prevent accidents.
Standing water, or flooded roads, are extremely dangerous for your vehicle. Many SUVs come with high water wading depth, but not all cars are meant for that. It is advised to keep checking social media and the radio to know the latest updates on the traffic conditions in your city. Also use Google Maps or other navigation apps to find alternative routes.
If you can’t avoid a waterlogged road, you should make sure that you’re constantly moving through the water. If your car stops in standing water, there is a high chance that water may seep in through the intake or the exhaust of your car. If your engine stalls, do not turn it on since water may sustain serious damage. To keep your car moving, keep the engine in a lower gear and the revs high.
Having sufficient tyre tread is crucial as it helps provide grip on the road. The more tread there, the longer your tyres will last and the safer you’ll be. The treads help disperse water and increase the contact patch of the rubber and the road. For optimum safety, your tyres should have a minimum tread depth of 2mm.
Brakes are an important feature of your car that helps to keep you safe. In monsoon, the stopping distance of your vehicle increases due to lack of proper grip. During rains or after driving through flooded roads, tap your brakes gently intermittently to make sure they remain dry and work well.
The main reason wiper blades were invented and are used in cars is to clean off water and dust from the windshield. A good set of wiper blades will ensure a streak-free windshield, increasing your visibility. Fill up the windshield washer fluid as it helps remove dirt and grime from your windshield, once the rain stops.
As mentioned earlier, monsoon reduces visibility and it is imperative to drive with your headlights as well as fog lights, if your car comes equipped with them — as it makes you more visible to other road users. It is important to ensure that all exterior lights of your car are in proper working condition. It is advised to only use hazard lights or blinkers when your car is stationary or in a dangerous spot.
Braking distance will inevitably increase on a wet surface, so it is crucial to increase the braking distance and keep a larger distance from the vehicle in front. Also, you must keep your speed in check as the braking distance increases and this will give you ample room to safely come to a halt.
Water-logged roads tend to increase the travel time and you’re bound to be stuck in heavy traffic jams. To ensure your car doesn’t run out of fuel while you’re waiting to reach your destination, keep at least half a tank of fuel so that you’re not stranded on the road.
[Featured Image Credit: Unsplash/ Dibakar Roy]
[All Images Credit: Pexels]
Satvik Khare