Floods, wind and poor visibility threaten motorists

Johannesburg - Severe winter weather in the Western Cape, including flooding, strong winds, fallen trees and vehicle damages, has highlighted the growing risks motorists face on the road during the colder months. With conditions able to have severe impact very quickly, road-safety experts and insurers are urging drivers to stay alert and follow official weather warnings

Recent scenes across the province are a stark reminder of how quickly winter conditions can become dangerous. Roads can flood within minutes, trees can be uprooted by strong winds, and visibility can drop suddenly. For South African drivers already managing tight household budgets, the financial consequences of weather-related damage can be significant, especially if a vehicle is underinsured or poorly maintained.

“Winter weather is not only a road safety issue, but also a preparedness issue,” says Sherry Sibeko, Executive Head for Personal Lines at Miway Insurance Limited. “Motorists should pay attention to warnings, make sure their vehicles are roadworthy and adjust their driving to wet, windy and unpredictable conditions.”

Adjust your driving for winter conditions

During heavy rain, visibility can be impacted, especially after dark, so motorists should slow down, increase following distance and avoid sudden braking or sharp steering. Standing water can hide potholes, debris or washed-away road surfaces, while driving through floodwater can damage a vehicle’s engine, electronics and interior. As a rule, Sibeko says, if you cannot clearly judge the depth of water across a road, do not attempt to drive through it.

Strong winds bring their own risks. Motorists should be cautious near large trees, trucks, exposed bridges and coastal routes, and avoid parking under anything that may fall or collapse.

Prepare your vehicle and plan ahead

If severe weather alerts advise against unnecessary travel, motorists should take them seriously. Delaying a trip or choosing a safer route can reduce risk and help avoid preventable damage during dangerous conditions.

Vehicle maintenance is another essential part of winter preparedness. Tyres should have sufficient tread and be correctly inflated, as worn tyres significantly reduce grip on wet roads. Wipers should clear the windscreen properly, lights should be working, brakes should be responsive, and demisters should function effectively. A pre-winter service can help identify problems before they become dangerous or expensive. It also helps to keep a basic emergency kit in the car, have your insurance emergency contact numbers easily accessible.

If a car is damaged during severe weather, safety comes first. Move away from immediate danger, contact emergency services if needed and take clear photographs of the damage and surrounding area, says Sibeko.

Check what your cover includes

Another practical step before winter sets in is to review your insurance cover. Flooding, storm damage, hail, falling trees and collisions can all lead to costly repairs, and not all policies cover damage to a driver’s own vehicle. Understanding the level of cover in place can help motorists avoid surprises after a severe weather incident.

It is also worth checking excess amounts, exclusions, whether flood or storm damage is included, and whether benefits such as towing, car hire or roadside assistance form part of the cover. For Miway clients, this includes having access to Mihelp via the App, which assists  if a vehicle is stranded during severe weather or after a breakdown. Motorists should also ensure their policy and contact details are accurate and up to date.

Be ready if damage occurs

In the event of an accident or weather-related damage, motorists should notify their insurer as soon as possible and keep the necessary information close at hand. Insurance can provide an important financial safety net, but it works best when motorists understand their cover and take sensible precautions before severe weather hits. “A little preparation can go a long way in reducing risk and limiting the impact of unexpected damage,” Sibeko concludes.