Tips for drivers
The State Emergency Service (SES) has some simple tips for drivers to keep safe on the roads.
Driving during a storm
If you know there is going to be a storm try to avoid being on the road and park your car under cover.
If you are driving and cannot avoid a storm follow these safe driving tips:
- Do not drive into water of unknown depth and current
- Slow down and turn headlights on, and keep a safe distance from other drivers
- Be alert and watch for hazards on the road such as fallen powerlines and loose debris
- If visibility is poor put on your hazard lights and pull over to the side of the road in a safe area until conditions improve
Driving during heavy rain
- If it is raining heavily and you cannot see, pull over, park and turn your hazard lights on until the rain clears
- Take care in areas that have been flooded, and do not drive into water of unknown depth and current
- If you are in the country be careful driving on gravel roads as surfaces will be slippery and muddy, and vehicles could become bogged
- Obey road closure signs
Driving during hail
- If there is large hail, try to find shelter nearby, such as an undercover car park, to protect yourself and your vehicle
- If there is no safe shelter pull over, park and turn your hazard lights on until the hail stops
- Remain in your vehicle but cover your head with your arms and try to remain calm
- Only leave your vehicle for safe shelter nearby but stay away from trees, powerlines, storm water drains and streams
- If your car windows have been damaged by the hail do not try to clean up the glass with your hands because it will be very sharp and you could cut yourself
Driving during lightning
If there is lightning, remain in your vehicle but avoid trees and powerlines. You will be safer in your car.
Driving after a storm
If you are driving after a storm take extra care on the roads:
- Slow down and keep a safe distance from other drivers
- If it is raining heavily and you cannot see, pull over and park with your hazard lights on until the rain clears
- Take care in areas that have been flooded, and do not drive into water of unknown depth and current
- If you are in the country be careful driving on gravel roads as surfaces will be slippery and muddy, and vehicles could become bogged
To check road conditions visit www.mainroads.wa.gov.au
To check weather conditions visit www.bom.gov.au
