It is July and it’s that time of the year when the road will be sloppy, wet, and very difficult to navigate in the city of Lagos. Lagos with a population of 20 million people with bad road networks, it is important for drivers to take caution during this time and drive with caution.
Here are 10 tips for Lagos drivers during the rainy season:
Reduce your speed. This is the most important tip. When it rains, the roads become slick and it takes longer to stop. Reduce your speed by at least 10 mph and be prepared to brake more slowly.
Turn on your headlights. Even in the daytime, rain can reduce visibility. Turning on your headlights will help you see better and make you more visible to other drivers.
Avoid hydroplaning. Hydroplaning occurs when your tires lose contact with the road surface and start to float on a layer of water. To avoid hydroplaning, slow down and avoid driving through large puddles.
Maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you. This will give you more time to react if the car in front of you stops suddenly.
Be aware of your surroundings. Watch out for puddles, debris, and other hazards that could cause you to lose control of your car.
Don’t use cruise control. Cruise control can be dangerous in the rain because it can make it difficult to control your speed if the road surface is slippery.
Be patient. The rain can make traffic slower, so be patient and don’t get frustrated.
Check your brakes. Make sure your brakes are in good working order before you drive in the rain.
Be prepared for flooding. If you see flooded roads, don’t drive through them. Floodwaters can be dangerous and can damage your car.
Use your hazard lights. If you have to stop in the rain, turn on your hazard lights to let other drivers know that you’re stopped.
Following these tips can help you stay safe on the road during the rainy season in Lagos.
Here are some additional tips that may be helpful in Lagos:
Be aware of the drainage system in your area. If there are any known areas that flood easily, avoid driving through them if possible.
If you must drive through a flooded area, go slowly and be prepared for the water to be deeper than you expect.
If your car stalls in a flooded area, do not try to restart it. Get out of the car and call for help.
If you see someone stranded in a flooded area, offer to help them.
By following these tips, you can help keep yourself and others safe on the road during the rainy season in Lagos.