Monsoons bring a refreshing change to our surroundings, but they also increase the risk of road accidents due to slippery and waterlogged conditions. Tragically, a Nashik-based businessman recently lost his life when his SUV lost control and overturned multiple times on the waterlogged Mumbai-Nagpur Expressway (Samruddhi Mahamarg), near the Igatpuri tunnel in Shahapur. To help you stay safe and protect your vehicle during such challenging conditions, here are some essential tips for driving through waterlogged roads. These precautions can help you avoid accidents and prevent costly damage to your car.
Stick to the centre lane
As much as this may go against all the traffic rules and know-how you’ve been taught, the reality is that the centre has the least amount of waterlogging. The middle lane is usually the shallowest and is usually a safer bet. If there are cars on this lane, then we suggest staying patient and letting them pass by and then joining this lane.
Drive slowly through waterlogged
Panic is the usual reaction when one is driving through waterlogged roads. The first step is to stay calm, maybe try taking a deep breath. Stick to first gear and gently accelerate without creating a splash, which increases the chances of water sneaking into the engine. Another important tip, always keep pressing the throttle, as that water does not enter the engine. After safely crossing the flooded area, park the car to the side and rev up the engine to ensure water is emitted out from the tailpipe.
How to dry off brakes
When driving through waterlogged conditions, always test your brakes gently after exiting deep water to ensure they function properly. Water trapped between the disc and pad or inside the rear drum brakes can reduce the efficiency of the brakes. To dry the brakes, find a safe, empty stretch of road and apply firm but controlled braking several times. This helps expel trapped water and restores normal braking performance. If your car begins to aquaplane, avoid panic braking; instead, ease off the accelerator and apply gentle, steady pressure on the brakes. This technique is especially useful for vehicles with drum brakes, which are common in India.
Aquaplaning prevention hacks
Hydroplaning, or aquaplaning, occurs when water accumulates between a vehicle’s tyres and the road, causing a loss of traction that makes steering, braking, or accelerating difficult. This typically happens during heavy rain or when driving through waterflooded roads, especially at high speeds or with worn tyres. A light steering feel or gliding sensation signals hydroplaning. To minimise the risk, drive slower in wet conditions, ensure tyres have sufficient tread depth, avoid sudden manoeuvres, maintain proper tyre pressure and steer clear of puddles, if possible.
