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Last modified: 15 Jul 2024 1:56pm

rain on windscreen with two vehicles in front

During winter, there isn’t as much sunlight and the frequency of rain usually increases, which makes driving difficult. It is important to plan ahead; stay alert; slow down; and drop back.

Before the wetter season arrives, check the tyres on your vehicle are correctly inflated, have plenty of tread and are fitted appropriately to give your vehicle maximum grip on the road and if your windscreen wipers need replacing.

In wet conditions, it takes a lot longer to stop your vehicle, so increase your following distance between yourself and the vehicle in front and reduce your speed; the two-second rule becomes a four-second rule.

Look out for any road signs warning of flooding and excess surface water on the road. It is also important to slow down when taking corners to avoid sliding into the other lane or off the road.

To defog your windscreen, use both the heater and air conditioner, and turn off air recirculation, which keeps air dry and prevents your windscreen from fogging up.

If it is raining, dip your headlights to make it easier for other road users to see you.

Clean your vehicle regularly so water runs off the windscreen easier, to help improve visibility.

For more information about driving safe in winter, visit selwyn.govt.nz/winterdriving.