Driving in the Rain in Joburg: Safety Tips That Could Save Your Life SA 2025

When the first rains arrive, they bring more than just that refreshing earthy smell so many of us recognise. Potholes deepen, oil slicks resurface, and, before you know it, chaos is back on the roads.

Whether you are dodging taxis on Empire Road or crawling through Fourways traffic, driving in the rain in Joburg is a whole different beast. The truth is, wet-weather accidents are more common than most Joburgers realise, and many are preventable.

Here is everything you need to know to stay safe behind the wheel during Gauteng’s storm season.

Also read: How to Pay Less for Your Traffic Fine in South Africa (2025)

1. Your car needs to be rain-ready before you even leave the driveway

Rainy conditions expose every weak spot in your car. That means:

• Tyres must have at least 1 millimetre tread depth across the entire width, although more is better. Worn tyres are one of the main causes of aquaplaning.

• Windscreen wipers should be replaced at least twice a year. If they are squeaking, skipping, or smearing water, it is time for new ones.

• Brake lights and headlights need to be in full working condition. Don’t forget your demister, which helps you combat fogged-up windows during temperature changes.

• Brakes and shocks should be tested, especially if you have not serviced your vehicle in a while.

2. Slow down and double your following distance

It takes longer to stop on wet roads. Always reduce your speed and increase your following distance to five or six seconds.

That three-second gap you leave in dry weather is not enough. Most wet-weather accidents happen because drivers underestimate how long it takes to stop once tyres lose grip.

3. Turn your headlights on, even during the day

Using low-beam headlights makes your car more visible. It is not just about seeing the road ahead; it is about being seen by other drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists, especially in poor light or heavy downpours.

Never use high beams in the rain. They reflect off the wet road and can reduce your visibility instead of improving it.

4. Skip the cruise control. You need full control

It might seem convenient, but cruise control can delay your reaction time in wet weather. If your tyres start hydroplaning, cruise control may actually accelerate when you need to slow down.

Stay in full manual control.

5. Hydroplaning happens. Here is how to handle it

Aquaplaning, also known as hydroplaning, happens when water builds up under your tyres and lifts them off the road.

What to do:

• Ease off the accelerator

• Don’t brake hard

• Steer straight or gently into the direction you want to go

• Wait until you regain grip, then continue driving carefully

Avoid puddles and standing water whenever possible. Many Joburg roads, especially near low bridges or rivers, flood quickly during downpours.

Image 1: Adobe Stock

6. Know the Joburg hotspots that flood first

According to the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department, these areas are frequent flood risks:

• Jukskei River crossings, including parts of Marlboro Drive and Alexandra

• N3 near Linksfield

• Witkoppen Road in Paulshof

• N1 and M1 off-ramps, especially near Woodmead and Rivonia

• Some streets in the Johannesburg CBD and southern suburbs like Rosettenville

Use live traffic apps or social media updates before your trip.

7. Stay alert and limit distractions

Phones, loud music, and makeup are all big no-nos in the rain. Reaction time matters more than ever when road conditions change suddenly.

If visibility is too poor, pull over safely and wait it out. Use your hazard lights only when stopped, not while driving.

And don’t forget to buckle up every trip, every time. Passenger safety is non-negotiable.

8. Public response: Joburgers know the drill, but many still don’t follow it

Social media is full of “Joburg drivers don’t know how to drive in the rain” memes every time a storm hits.

It is funny because it is true, but it is also dangerous. According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation’s 2025 statistics, Gauteng accounts for over 22% of all road fatalities in South Africa, and young adults aged 25 to 44 are most at risk.

Slowing down in the rain is not just about avoiding an accident; it could literally save your life.

9. It is not just about your car; it’s about everyone on the road

Driving safely in the rain is part of a bigger culture of care in Joburg. You might know what you’re doing behind the wheel, but can you trust the driver next to you?

So do your part. Prepare, be alert, and drive defensively. And if it is pouring outside, it is okay to wait a few minutes longer before hitting the road.

Your car, your insurance, and your peace of mind will thank you.

Also read: What Are the Most Stolen Car Brands in Joburg? 2025 Update

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter, TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com

Featured Image: 106.3 Lafayette’s Rock and Alternative