Most drivers in Dubai would be familiar with the dangers of driving in bad weather. Fog, rain or sandstorms are commonly linked to pile ups on the main roads. The Dubai car insurance experts at ServiceMarket have compiled a list of universal safety tips, as well as weather specific tips, for you to follow to decrease your chances of ending up in a car crash. The number one tip that we can give you, though, is to avoid driving in very bad weather. Stay at home, if you can.
However, if you find yourself driving when the weather takes a turn for the worse, try to get off the road and stop your car. You could also pull into a petrol station or rest area. Whether it is rain, fog or a dust storm, it is best to wait for the weather to clear up. As you get off the road, remember to turn off your lights to avoid collisions. If drivers see tail lights, they often expect a car to be moving and might crash into your car. Once you have stopped, turn on the hazard lights. Hazard lights signal for a stopped vehicle.
If you have to drive through bad weather for some reason, follow these tips. They are universal for driving in a fog, dust storm or rain.
The Dos
- Turn on your headlights and keep them on low beam to avoid dazzling other drivers.
- Take it easy on the accelerator and give yourself more time to reach your destination.
- Keep your distance from the other cars to give yourself a longer braking distance.
- Minimize distractions by turning off music and silencing your phone.
- Turn off cruise control to give yourself more control of the vehicle.
- Use the right edge of the road as a guide.
- Tune into the traffic radio station for traffic updates.
The Don’ts
- Don’t stop your car on the roadway.
- Avoid changing lanes.
- Don’t turn on the hazard lights as they signal for a stopped vehicle.
We also have some weather specific tips for you:
In a dust storm
- Run over tumbleweeds, instead of swerving to avoid them. They can’t do your car any damage.
- Be prepared for slick driving conditions as a dust storm is usually followed by rain.
In the rain
- Use windshield wipers properly.
- Be aware of hydroplaning. You can lose control of the car depending on how much water there is between the road and the car tyres.
- Avoid driving through standing water. Your engine can get severely damaged even if a cup of water gets sucked into it and such damage might not be covered by your car insurance. It is never covered if you only have TPL coverage.
In the fog
- Open your window a little to listen for cars or voices shouting warnings.
- Use windshield wipers and defrosters to prevent condensation build up on the outside and inside of the car.
- Turn on your fog lights.
While you may remember and follow these tips to the letter, don’t expect others to be as informed or attentive while driving in bad weather. Remember to review your car insurance policy before you renew to check that you are covered for all eventualities. If you want to buy insurance or switch providers, get insurance quotes from reputable car insurance companies in Dubai on ServiceMarket.
