Introduction
As the Indian monsoon season kicks in, our cars might start resembling sleek speedboats more than trusty land vehicles. The thunderous downpours can transform city streets into mini lakes, placing us in a scene straight out of Venice - without the romance. But fear not; we're here to help you conquer the chaos that these rains bring with some car drive tips.
Here, we will provide 5 essential tips for driving safely on Indian roads. We will also cover some monsoon driving safety tips, especially for beginner drivers.
Tip 1. Make your wheels weather-ready
Check your tyres-this is one of the most important car drive tips. Your tyre treads act as mighty warriors, warding off the treacherous waters on wet roads. These grooves channel water away, maximising rubber-road contact and ensuring your car doesn't turn into an uncontrolled surfboard. Bald or worn tyres could make your car skid or slide on waterlogged roads. Ensure your tread depth is above 2mm; any less, and it's time for new tyres.
Tip 2. Check your car brakes
Next on the list of car drive tips is prioritising brakes. Brakes are your best friends in navigating monsoon-related challenges. Wet roads increase vehicle stopping distances and maintaining peak brake performance becomes crucial.
If your car has ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System), it can help you brake in wet conditions. Well-maintained brakes can stop quickly and safely, avoiding a potential disaster.
Tip 3. Check your wiper blades
Monsoons often bring along muddy sprays or foggy windshields, hampering visibility. That's where good wiper blades come to your rescue. Ensure they wipe clean, leaving behind no streaks that could distract you. This is one of the most often ignored driving monsoon safety tips.
Interesting Fact: A clean windshield can improve driver reaction times by up to one second - which at 60km/h translates into four car lengths of additional stopping distance!
Tip 4. Use headlights even in the daytime
Monsoon clouds might dim natural daylight, but you can counter that with your car lights. Use headlights and fog lights in low-visibility conditions. This doesn't just help you see better but also makes you more visible to fellow drivers. However, avoid using hazard lights while moving unless necessary-they could confuse other drivers.
Tip 5. Keep safe distance
When it comes to monsoon safety tips, remember that driving in the rain can be risky on various terrains. You must maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead and keep your speed in check. This gives you ample room to brake, extra reaction time, and a clear view of the road ahead.
The table below shows the ideal stopping distance for both dry and wet roads.
Condition | Stopping Distance at 60 km/h |
Dry Road | 18 metres |
Wet Road | 27 metres |
Next time you head out during the rainy season, make sure to follow these essential car drive tips for a safer journey.
Car driving for beginners tips
If you are a beginner at driving a car, our car driving for beginners tips can surely help drive in the wet weather. Here are some extra tips for driving safely apart from getting your car ready for the monsoon:
Familiarise yourself with vehicle controls: Ensure you know the location and function of essential controls, such as headlights, indicators, windshield wipers, and emergency brakes. This is the very first and most important car drive tip for a beginner driver.
Check weather forecasts: Before heading out, check weather reports to anticipate heavy rain or storms and plan your trip accordingly.
Monitor traffic updates: Use navigation apps to stay informed about road conditions, traffic jams, or flooded areas, allowing you to choose safer routes.
Defog your windows: Use the air conditioner or defroster to keep your windows from fogging up, which can impair your vision.
Carry emergency kit: Keep an emergency kit in your car, including a flashlight, first aid supplies, and basic tools. A raincoat and umbrella are also useful.
Following these tips for driving safely can significantly reduce your risk of accidents and ensure a smoother journey.
Conclusion
Monsoon driving can be challenging with slippery roads, potholes, and low visibility due to bad weather. But arming yourself with these essential monsoon driving safety tips can make your journey safer and smoother.
And if you're considering getting a car to avoid getting drenched in the rain but are put off by the hassles of traditional ownership, consider car lease India options like Quiklyz.
With Quiklyz, you can subscribe to a brand-new car registered in your name in just four steps and have your dream car delivered to your doorstep! Plus, you'll never have to worry about maintenance or insurance-it's all included in our single monthly subscription fee!