In a tropical climate such as Seychelles, downpours are quite common and as drivers we often think very little of it. We all know to exert caution on the road, especially when the roads and wet and slick. However, we’ve all been in a situation where we’re in a hurry and drive a little too fast.
In these situations, it is easy to lose traction over water while driving, and actually skimming or sliding on the surface of that water. This is called hydroplaning, and can be a frightening experience because it results in loss of control of the car.
In order to avoid such a scenario, here is what you can do as a driver to avoid hydroplaning:
- Maintain your tires – make sure the tread is good and that they are properly inflated.
- Slow down when it rains. Even a light rain can be hazardous, particularly in the first few minutes as rainfall mixes with oils on the road surface.
- Avoid standing water where possible.
- If you have the option to, disable cruise control on wet roads and when raining.
- Increase the following distance between you and the car ahead.
- If you do hydroplane, stay calm, ease off the accelerator, and don’t make any sudden moves that may cause a spin out.
Make sure that your motor vehicle policy is always valid, it’s the only way to ensure that you are protected in the event of an accident.
Need to renew your policy?
Pay us a visit at our branches (Maison Esplanade – Victoria, Pension Complex –Baie St. Anne Praslin, Green Corner –Providence) or call us on 429 5000 or send an email to info@sacos.sc. We’ll be more than happy to help!
