Thailand is no stranger to the rain.
And as Thailand’s first class car insurance broker, Roojai sees all the fallout of accidents caused by driving in the rain.
So our experts put together a list of things to do and not to do, when the rainy season strikes!
- SLOW DOWN
Our number one tip for driving in the rain is slow down. We know that you are used to the adverse weather conditions, but your car is not!
When the road is wet, your tires quickly lose traction leaving you at risk of skidding.
- TAKE EXTRA CARE AFTER HOT WEATHER
When the rains follow a hot, dry spell the roads may become extra slippery. This is because of a build up oil and grease on the tarmac.
Once it has rained the first time, this should be washed away, but that first rain can contain a lot of oil – which is slippery as hell!
- KEEP YOUR DISTANCE
As well as slowing down, give extra room between you and the next road vehicle. Stopping distances should be double what they usually are and the same goes for all those big bikes and motorcycles out there!
- INSURANCE
Get the best car insurance (ประกันรถยนต์ ) possible in Thailand no matter what type of vehicle you drive. Don’t just rely on the Por Ror Bor, which only provides third party cover in the event of an accident.
Owners of big bikes or motorcycles often have insurance cover which is inadequate for their needs. And they are more at risk than most, of an accident in Thailand’s notorious wet weather!
- HAVE THE BEST TIRES POSSIBLE
Whatever your vehicle, a worn and old tire is especially dangerous in the rain.
Before the rains come, ensure your car or vehicle is fitted with the best tires possible. This will reduce your risk of an accident considerably.
- HOLD THE STEERING WHEEL WITH BOTH HANDS
Put down your cellphone, drink or whatever else you may be fiddling with. Driving in the rain demands concentration and care. You need to use both hands to steer properly – to avoid driving through any standing water or other hazards present on the wet roads.
- AVOID PUDDLES WHERE POSSIBLE
We know it is hard, but wherever possible, don’t plow into a puddle or standing water on the roads.
Not only does it increase your risks of skidding, but the splash can hinder your view and also other road users’ vantage point of the road. It may also throw unseen debris around.
Besides this, a deep puddle can mask a pothole in the road, causing damage to your vehicle or worse.
- DEALING WITH HYDROPLANING
If your car begins to hydroplane, i.e. the steering or braking is affected by the water, don’t panic.
Don’t slam on the brakes. Stopping suddenly will make you skid or worse. Remove your foot from the gas pedal and then ensure the wheel is straight. Give your car some time to get the traction back, before applying the brakes very lightly, if you need to.
- GET A CAR HEALTH CHECK
Get into the habit of maintaining your car to the best of your abilities. This means checking the oil, the tires, the brakes and the windshield regularly.
Most minor problems, you should be able to rectify for yourself. But if you are not confident of your abilities beneath the hood, then always choose a trusted mechanic to undertake this for you.
Regardless of how able you are to service your own vehicle, we would always advise a regular car maintenance check at a qualified garage.
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