How can drivers stay safe while driving in heavy rain and flooded road conditions?
Driving during heavy rainfall can be dangerous because wet roads reduce tyre grip, visibility decreases, and waterlogged streets may conceal potholes or damaged road surfaces. Drivers should reduce speed, increase the following distance, and avoid sudden braking, sharp turns, or rapid acceleration. Headlights should be used when visibility is poor, and windscreen wipers, tyres, brakes, and lights should be checked regularly. Motorists should avoid using hazard lights while driving normally in rain unless an emergency or applicable traffic guidance requires them.
Never attempt to drive through flooded roads when the depth, current, or road condition is uncertain. Even shallow-looking water can conceal open drains, potholes, or damaged surfaces. If a road is submerged or barricaded, choose an alternative route rather than taking unnecessary risks. If visibility becomes dangerously poor, stop at a safe location away from moving traffic and wait for conditions to improve. Motorcyclists should ride slowly, avoid sudden manoeuvres, and watch for slippery road markings and metal surfaces. Careful speed management, proper vehicle maintenance, and avoiding flooded routes are essential practices for preventing monsoon-related road accidents.