More Than Just Rain
Driving during the monsoon isn't just about dealing with falling rain. Visibility is compromised from all angles. Heavy downpours reduce how far you can see ahead, while spray from large trucks and buses can momentarily blind you. On top of that, the high
humidity causes windscreens to fog up from both the inside and outside, creating a dangerous, blurry view of the road. Painted road markings become slick and harder to see. These combined factors make it essential to ensure your car's visibility systems are in perfect working order before you even turn the key.
Wipers and Windscreen: Your Primary Defence
Your windscreen and wipers are your first line of defence against the elements. Before a trip, ensure your wiper blades are in good condition. The rubber should be soft and pliable, not cracked or hardened from sun exposure. If they leave streaks or make a screeching noise, it's time for a replacement—a small investment for a massive gain in safety. Also, top up your windshield washer fluid. A good quality fluid helps clear away the muddy spray kicked up by other vehicles, which is a common issue on Indian highways during the monsoon. Finally, check your windshield for any small chips or cracks; the constant pressure from wipers and temperature changes can cause them to expand.
Headlights and Taillights: See and Be Seen
In a downpour, being visible to other drivers is just as important as your own ability to see. Always drive with your low-beam headlights on during rain, even in the daytime. This makes your vehicle significantly more visible to oncoming traffic and those behind you. Avoid using high beams, as they reflect off the raindrops and can create a wall of glare, reducing your visibility and blinding other drivers. Before your trip, walk around the car and check that all your lights are working—headlights, taillights, brake lights, and indicators. A clean, bright light can cut through the gloom of a heavy shower far more effectively.
Demystifying the Demister
One of the most persistent problems during monsoon drives is a fogged-up windshield. This happens when the humid air outside is cooler than the air inside your car. The solution is to use your air conditioning. The AC acts as a dehumidifier, removing moisture from the cabin. Set your AC to blow cool, dry air onto the windscreen using the defogger setting. For fog on the exterior of the glass, a swift swipe of your wipers will do the trick. Resisting the urge to wipe the inside with your hand is key, as this leaves oily smudges that worsen glare, especially at night.
Mirrors and On-Road Strategy
Your side and rear-view mirrors are crucial for safe lane changes, but they are often rendered useless by water droplets. Before you start, clean them thoroughly. You can also apply a hydrophobic coating, which causes water to bead up and roll off, maintaining clarity. Once on the road, adapting your driving style is paramount. Reduce your speed significantly to decrease the chances of hydroplaning, where your tyres lose contact with the road. Double your following distance from the vehicle ahead; the 'two-second rule' should become a 'four or five-second rule' in the rain to account for longer braking distances on wet roads.
