3 Ways Drivers Can Survive the Rainy Season

The rainy season brings relief from the heat but it also brings treacherous driving conditions. From flooded streets in Lagos to slippery highways in Enugu, accidents during the rainy season spike sharply.

According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), over 30% of road crashes between June and September are linked to weather-related factors like poor visibility, waterlogged roads, and vehicle malfunction. Yet, many of these accidents could be prevented with proper preparation and cautious driving.

1. Maintain Your Tyres for Maximum Grip

Your tyres are your vehicle’s only contact point with the road. In wet conditions, worn-out tyres lose their ability to grip, increasing the risk of skidding or hydroplaning.

Rainy Season Tyre Checklist:

• Tread Depth: The grooves should be at least 3mm deep for effective water dispersion.
• Tyre Pressure: Keep it at manufacturer-recommended levels; underinflation reduces grip, while overinflation reduces stability.
• Rotation & Alignment: Rotate tyres every 8,000–10,000 km and align wheels to prevent uneven wear.

Tip: If your tyres are over four years old, consider replacing them before the peak rainy months.

2. Improve Visibility Before and During Rain

Reduced visibility is one of the leading causes of wet-weather crashes. Heavy rain, foggy windshields, and poor lighting conditions can make it hard to judge distances and spot hazards.

Steps to Ensure Clear Vision:

• Wiper Blades: Replace them every 6–12 months. Streaking or squeaking means they’re worn out.
• Defogging: Use your AC or defogger to prevent the windshield from misting up.
• Headlights & Tail Lights: Keep them clean and functional. Use low-beam headlights in rain, high beams reflect off water droplets and create glare.

Safety Note: Avoid driving with hazard lights on in the rain unless your vehicle is stationary; it can confuse other drivers.

3. Adjust Your Driving to Road Conditions

Even with perfect tyres and clear visibility, reckless driving can still turn wet roads deadly.

Safe Driving Techniques in Rainy Season:

• Reduce Speed: Wet roads can double your stopping distance. Drive 10–20 km/h slower than usual in heavy rain.
• Increase Following Distance: Keep at least 4 seconds between you and the car ahead.
• Avoid Sudden Braking: Instead, slow down gradually to maintain control.
• Stay in Middle Lanes: Water tends to pool in outer lanes, especially on poorly graded roads.
• Watch for Hydroplaning: If your car starts to skid, gently ease off the accelerator and steer in the direction you want to go, avoid slamming the brakes.

The Hidden Dangers: Flooded Roads

Flooded sections are common in cities like Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Benin during the rainy season. Driving through deep water can:

• Stall your engine
• Damage electrical systems
• Sweep your car away in strong water currents.

Rule of Thumb: If you can’t see the road markings under the water, it’s too deep, turn back.

Real-World Case Study

On July 10, 2025, a Toyota Corolla in Ibadan lost control on a flooded stretch of the Iwo Road Expressway. Witnesses reported the driver entered standing water at high speed, hydroplaned, and collided with a median barrier. While the occupants survived with minor injuries, the car was a total loss. FRSC officers later confirmed the tyres were worn and the wipers non-functional.

Why Nigerian Roads Make Rain Driving Riskier

Many Nigerian roads lack:

• Proper drainage systems
• Quality asphalt resistant to erosion
• Adequate signage warning of hazards ahead

This means drivers must be extra vigilant and compensate for infrastructural weaknesses by adopting safer driving habits.

Conclusion

The rainy season doesn’t have to be deadly for Nigerian motorists. By maintaining your tyres, improving visibility, and adjusting your driving style, you significantly reduce the risk of accidents.

Remember: Arriving a little later is always better than not arriving at all.

References:

1. Federal Road Safety Corps-Seasonal Road Safety Advisory, 2024-2025

2. World Health Organization – Road Traffic Injury Prevention Guidelines

3. Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) – 2025 Rainfall Pattern Report

4. RoadKing.ng archives – Rainy season accident reports.