RAC motoring alert: Wet roads

22 March 2010

The RAC is reminding motorists to be careful when driving on wet roads today and tomorrow.
 
Perth has experienced a long, hot summer with the last significant rainfall received in November 2009.

Recent tests at the RAC Driving Centre showed that a combination of worn tyres, brakes, shock absorbers and wet roads added more than eight metres in stopping distance even for vehicles travelling at the speed limit.

RAC Head of Member Advocacy Matt Brown said after such a long dry rain across Perth and regional areas would create dangerous driving conditions.

“A long dry spell, such as the one we’ve experienced in Perth, leads to a build up of oil and grease on the roads. When it rains for the first time, the water brings this to the surface and the roads become particularly slippery,” Mr Brown said.

“Motorists need to drive carefully and leave extra distance between them and the car in front.

“The rain and wet roads will affect peak hour traffic and make conditions a lot more dangerous than usual. The RAC advises all motorists to be patient and adapt their driving behaviour to the conditions.”

Download the release (pdf)