In Cambodia, the wet season comes courtesy of the southwest monsoon which blows from the month of May until October, bringing with it some 75 percent of the country’s annual rainfall.

However, as we know it, the rainy days are usually just a few hours of heavy downpour and not all-day rain. Along with the season’s change, people also need to cope with the challenges that come along with the change (such as floods).

In this special article, Tan Chong Motor Cambodia would like to share to Cambodian drivers on ‘Tips When Driving During Heavy Rain’.

1) The first thing to do if you are caught in heavy rain is to slow down and leave more space to the vehicle in front. Stopping distances will double in the wet due to a reduction in grip, so give yourself more time and space to brake.

2) When you are faced with a seriously flooded road, be cautious of puddles and standing water. What might look like a minor puddle at the side of the road could potentially be hiding a deep pothole.

3) If / when you have determined that it is safe to proceed, take it slowly and stick to the centre of the road.

4) Don’t Stop. Try to maintain a steady slow speed (3-4mph) and don’t change gear. If you need to, slip the clutch to keep revs up and speed down. In an automatic try braking gently while maintaining pressure on the accelerator.

5) Moving slowly will help create a small bow wave which will stop the engine bay flooding. Stopping could flood the engine bay or could allow water to flow into the exhaust pipe – both of which are bad news.

6) Remember, modern vehicles are full of complex electrical systems which are vulnerable to water damage. Rushing through a puddle that forces water into the engine bay or wading into a deep flood could quickly cause expensive damage.

7) Once you are clear of the flood, dry your brakes. Apply them gently while driving slowly to remove the water from them.

8) Put on your headlights. Heavy rain and spray reduces visibility for all road users. It’s important to put your headlights on, not only to aid your vision but also to make your vehicle more visible to other drivers.

9) Be aware of other vehicles and pedestrians. You don’t want to soak pedestrians or potentially flood or damage anyone else’s vehicle.

Did you know…

Some Nissan vehicles offers a massive ground clearance of 230mm and is ideal for this region as its helps reduces the risk of damage from rough, uneven roads and from driving in flooded areas.

For more information on all Nissan models in Cambodia, please visit Nissan Cambodia’s website at www.nissan.com.kh/ or follow Nissan Cambodia’s Facebook Page at fb.com/CambodiaNissan/

This special edition news tips is issued by Tan Chong Motor.