Surviving the monsoon: 7 Best practices for driving in low visibility

The Philippines is no stranger to heavy rains and monsoon seasons, with many areas experiencing torrential downpours that reduce visibility and make driving hazardous. From flooding streets to dense fog or heavy rain, driving in these conditions requires special attention and adjustments. Many road accidents during the monsoon season can be attributed to poor visibility and unsafe driving practices. To help keep yourself, your passengers, and others on the road safe, it's crucial to follow certain guidelines when navigating through low-visibility conditions.

Here are seven best practices to remember when driving in low visibility during the monsoon season in the Philippines.

1. Reduce speed and increase the following distance

When driving in low visibility conditions, such as during heavy rain or fog, reducing speed becomes crucial. Lowering speed helps drivers compensate for the decreased visibility and increased braking distance caused by wet roads. This not only improves reaction times but also reduces the risk of accidents.

Maintaining an extended following distance from the vehicle ahead offers additional reaction time. Since wet roads reduce tyre traction, cars require longer stopping distances, and increasing the gap between vehicles helps to avoid sudden braking and collisions. Experts often recommend doubling the usual distance to account for these factors.

Key takeaways -

• Wet roads have less traction, making it harder for your tyres to grip the road.
• Reducing your speed helps you stay in control, especially when making turns or stopping suddenly.
• Increased following distance gives you extra time to stop if the vehicle in front of you suddenly breaks.

2. Use proper lighting for maximum visibility

Lighting plays a pivotal role in ensuring that drivers can see the road and be seen by others during periods of low visibility. However, using the correct type of lighting is essential, as improper use can worsen visibility. High beams, for example, should generally be avoided in rain or fog because they tend to reflect off water particles, causing glare that can blind the driver.

Low beams, on the other hand, are more effective in cutting through rain and fog. In heavy rains or at night, using low beams ensures the road remains visible without creating additional glare. In vehicles equipped with fog lights, these should be used to enhance visibility during particularly foggy conditions. It's also advisable to switch on headlights during rainy days, even in the daytime, to make the vehicle more visible to others on the road.

Key takeaways -

• Use low beams during rain or fog to avoid glare.
• Turn on your headlights even during the day to make yourself more visible to other drivers.
• Avoid using high beams unless you are on a clear, open road.
• If your vehicle has fog lights, switch them on for extra visibility.
• Keeping the vehicle's lights in good condition and making sure they’re functioning properly before heading out in bad weather can be a life-saving precaution.

Also Read: Protect your car this monsoon: Parking tips for flood-prone area

3. Keep the windshield clean and clear

A clear windshield is crucial for maintaining visibility while driving, especially in wet conditions. Rain, dirt, and fogging on the windshield can obstruct the driver’s view, making an already difficult driving situation worse. Regular cleaning of the windshield, both inside and out, is essential to prevent the accumulation of dust, grime, or streaks that could interfere with visibility.

Windshield wipers should also be checked regularly to ensure they are in good working condition. Worn-out wiper blades can leave streaks of water across the windshield, further limiting visibility. In addition, using a rain-repellent product on the windshield can help water slide off more easily, reducing the need for constant wiper use.

Fogging is another common issue that occurs during the monsoon season. Drivers should make sure their vehicle’s defogger and air conditioning systems are working properly. These systems help prevent condensation buildup on the inside of the windshield, ensuring a clear view of the road ahead.

Key takeaways

• Regularly clean your windshield both inside and outside to prevent grime from obstructing your view.
• Ensure that your wipers are in good condition and replace them regularly.
• Worn-out wipers can leave streaks that reduce visibility.
• Use your car’s defogger and air conditioning to prevent the inside of the windshield from fogging up. A foggy windshield can drastically cut down on your ability to see what’s ahead.
• Apply rain-repellent solutions to your windshield for added visibility in heavy rain. These solutions cause water to bead up and roll off, allowing you to see more clearly.

4. Avoid sudden braking and acceleration

Sudden movements, such as hard braking or rapid acceleration, can easily cause vehicles to lose traction on wet roads. Hydroplaning, where the tyres lose contact with the road surface due to water buildup, is a significant risk during heavy rainfall. This occurs when a layer of water separates the tyres from the road, causing the vehicle to slide uncontrollably.

To prevent hydroplaning, drivers should focus on making smooth, gradual movements. Gentle braking and slow acceleration help maintain tire traction on the road, reducing the chances of skidding. Maintaining a steady speed and avoiding sudden lane changes are also effective ways to stay in control on wet surfaces.

Ensuring that tyres are properly inflated and have sufficient tread depth is another critical precaution. Worn tyres are more prone to hydroplaning because they cannot channel water effectively. Drivers should check tyre condition regularly, especially before the rainy season, to ensure safety on wet roads.

Key takeaways -

• Gradually press the brake pedal instead of slamming it to avoid skidding.
• When accelerating, do so slowly and smoothly to maintain traction with the road.
• Ensure your tyres are properly inflated and have sufficient tread. Worn-out tyres increase the chances of hydroplaning.

5. Stay aware of the surroundings

When visibility is limited, staying aware of the surroundings becomes even more critical. Drivers should remain vigilant, frequently checking their mirrors and scanning the road ahead for potential hazards. This proactive approach helps to identify other vehicles, pedestrians, and obstacles early, giving the driver more time to react appropriately.

In areas prone to flooding, such as low-lying streets, drivers should be extra cautious and avoid driving through deep water if possible. Flooded areas can conceal potholes or other road hazards, making driving dangerous. Additionally, drivers should be mindful of pedestrians or cyclists who may be harder to spot in rainy or foggy conditions.

Reducing distractions is also vital in low-visibility conditions. This means avoiding phone use, turning down the radio, and focusing entirely on the road. Maintaining full attention to the driving environment can make a significant difference in preventing accidents.

Key takeaways -

• Use your mirrors frequently to monitor the positions of surrounding vehicles.
• Keep an eye on the edges of the road, especially in areas prone to flooding.
• Water can accumulate quickly and catch you off guard.
• Be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists, who can be more difficult to spot in low visibility.
• Avoid distractions. Focus on the road and minimize the use of your phone or other in-car distractions.

6. Pull over if conditions worsen

In extreme weather conditions where visibility is close to zero, it may be safer to pull over and wait for the situation to improve. Continuing to drive when it's impossible to see the road is dangerous not only for the driver but for other road users as well.

Drivers should pull over to a safe location, such as a rest area or the shoulder of the road, and turn on their hazard lights to alert other vehicles. It's important to avoid stopping in the middle of the road or at places where the car could be struck by passing vehicles. Waiting out the worst of the weather is often the safest option, particularly if rain or fog is making driving unmanageable.

Key takeaways -

• If you cannot see the road ahead or the tail lights of the car in front of you, it’s time to pull over.
• If the rain is too heavy or the fog is thick, find a safe location, such as a rest area or side street, to stop.
• Turn on your hazard lights while pulled over so that other drivers can easily spot your vehicle.
• Wait until the rain or fog lightens up before resuming your journey.

7. Utilize technology assistance

Many modern vehicles are equipped with safety technologies designed to assist drivers in challenging conditions, particularly when visibility is compromised. Features such as Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS), traction control, and stability control are invaluable in helping to maintain control of the vehicle on slippery roads.

ABS, for example, prevents the wheels from locking up during emergency braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control. Traction control helps prevent wheel spin, particularly during acceleration, ensuring better grip on wet surfaces. These systems work together to provide added stability, particularly when the weather is bad.

Vehicles with rain-sensing wipers automatically adjust wiper speed based on the intensity of the rainfall, helping drivers focus on the road rather than manually adjusting the wipers. Backup cameras and rear parking sensors can also assist by improving visibility when maneuvering in tight spaces or during heavy rainfall.

Key takeaways -

• Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS): Prevents your brakes from locking up during emergency stops, giving you better control.
• Traction Control: Helps maintain traction by preventing your wheels from spinning, especially useful on wet surfaces.
• Rearview Cameras and Sensors: These can help you back up safely and detect obstacles even in low visibility.
• Rain-Sensing Wipers: Automatically adjust wiper speed based on the amount of rainfall, so you can focus on the road without fiddling with controls.

Bottom line

Driving during the monsoon season in the Philippines presents several challenges, especially when visibility is reduced. By following these best practices, drivers can mitigate risks and enhance their safety on the road. Whether it's adjusting speed, using proper lighting, or pulling over when necessary, taking the right precautions can help prevent accidents and ensure a safer journey.

Also Read: How intense heat damages your car