Stay safe on the roads: Five essential driving tips 

Imagine you’re getting ready for a road trip with your family. You’re excited about the drive, but you notice your front tyre looks a little flat. Before setting off, you need to make sure your vehicle’s ready for the road ahead.

You’re driving on a wet road, the rain tapping on your windshield. Suddenly, the car ahead stops abruptly. Is there enough room to stop?

Wet roads need a different driving approach. Reducing your speed is crucial for keeping in control of your car and preventing hydroplaning. That’s when a layer of water builds up between your tyres and the road surface, causing a loss of traction. 

Keeping a safe distance from the vehicle ahead is equally important. Queensland Government road safety during wet weather recommends you double the distance between your car and the car in front. This means keeping at least a four-second gap, so you’ll have more time to react if the vehicle in front stops suddenly. 

Take action: Adjust your driving style to the road conditions, slowing down and keeping a larger gap between you and the vehicle in front.

There’s a foggy stretch of road ahead, the mist swirling around you, making it hard to see where you’re driving.

Rain, hail, mist, and fog can affect your visibility, so slow down or find a safe place to park until conditions improve. Don’t use high beams in foggy conditions. They can make visibility worse by reflecting off the fog and causing glare.

Take action: Make sure your car’s lights, including indicators, brake, and hazard lights, are clean and working well. You need to see others and make sure others can see you on the road.

It’s raining and you’re listening to your favourite playlist as you’re driving home. Suddenly, you need to swerve to avoid a pothole. Remember to use gentle braking and steering to stay in control of your car. 

On wet roads, sudden movements from accelerating, braking, or sharp turns could lead to aquaplaning. You might then start to skid, and, potentially, lose control of your vehicle. 

If you start to aquaplane, Road Safety Education says not to brake suddenly as it could cause skidding. Instead, gradually ease your foot off the accelerator and hold the steering wheel straight – in the direction the front of your car needs to go. When the car starts to gain control, you can gently brake to reduce your speed.

Take action: Adjust your driving for wet roads and other difficult road conditions, no matter how well you know the road. Check out Seat Belters on Spotify, your playlist for safer driving.

You’re driving to a hotel for a weekend break, with dinner booked at a great restaurant. However, road closures due to flooding are causing delays. 

Before heading out, check the weather forecast and road conditions. Plan your route in advance to try to avoid areas known for flooding. 

Navigation apps can give you live updates on road closures, accidents, and traffic. This can help you change your route, if needed. Local radio may also have advice.

Try to allow extra time for your journey in case of potential delays and so you can enjoy a stress-free drive.

If there’s heavy rainfall or flooding, remember you should never drive through floodwater. It may be deeper than it looks, and safety is your priority. For tips on staying safe on the road during extreme weather, visit the NSW Government’s Centre for Road Safety.

Take action: Plan your route and pack an emergency kit.

Allianz Motor Claims data for 2024 found that 80% of motor claims came from collisions. These were mostly for cars hit in the rear, followed by accidents caused by failure to give right of way. 

Other common claims included hitting an object and reversing mishaps. However, the highest number of claims was for windscreen damage.

Knowing these common claim types may help you take extra care when you’re on the road.

Driving in bad weather doesn't have to be daunting. Make sure your car is ready, check tyres and windscreen wipers, adjust driving for wet weather, and stay alert. Packing an emergency kit is also a good idea, especially for longer drives. Use these tips to help you stay safe and enjoy a smooth drive, whatever the weather.

This article has been prepared by Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850 AFSL234708 ("Allianz"). It is a summary of key concepts and not meant to represent the complete picture on any given matter. It is not meant to be legal advice. The information should be read in conjunction with the relevant legislation and regulations. In some cases, information has been provided to us by third parties and while that information is believed to be accurate and reliable, its accuracy is not guaranteed in any way.

Any opinions expressed constitute our views at the time of issue and are subject to change. Neither Allianz, nor its employees or directors give any warranty of accuracy or accept responsibility for any loss or liability incurred by you in respect of any error, omission or misrepresentation in this article.