Driving in Bad Weather and at Night in Ghana

Driving in rain, fog, or at night increases the risk of accidents in Ghana. These conditions require special attention and adjusted driving techniques to ensure safety.

Reduced visibility, slippery roads, and fatigue require extra caution and safe driving techniques.

General Rules for Bad Weather

When driving in challenging weather conditions, always remember these four fundamental rules:

🐢

Reduce Speed

Slow down to maintain control and increase reaction time. Wet roads can double stopping distances.

↔️

Increase Distance

Maintain at least 4-6 seconds following distance instead of the usual 2-3 seconds.

💡

Use Headlights

Use low-beam headlights in rain, fog, or at dusk. Never use high beams in fog.

⚠️

Avoid Sudden Moves

Avoid sudden braking, acceleration, or sharp turns that could cause skidding.

Driving in Specific Conditions

🌧️

Driving in Rain

Roads may be slippery due to water or oil (especially during first rain)
Reduce speed by at least 10-15 km/h below dry road speed
Switch on low-beam headlights for better visibility
Avoid puddles or standing water where possible to prevent hydroplaning
Use windshield wipers continuously and ensure they're in good condition

🌫️

Driving in Fog or Mist

Use fog lights if available, otherwise low-beam headlights only
Increase following distance to allow more reaction time (6-8 seconds)
Avoid overtaking unless absolutely safe and necessary
Reduce speed significantly and stay in your lane
Listen for traffic you cannot see

🌙

Driving at Night

Ensure headlights are clean, properly aimed, and functioning
Reduce speed by 10-15% to compensate for reduced visibility
Use high beams only when there is no oncoming traffic within 150 meters
Watch for pedestrians, animals, and cyclists who are harder to see
Avoid looking directly into oncoming headlights - glance at the right edge of your lane
Take regular breaks if driving long distances to combat fatigue

Additional Safety Tips

Vehicle Preparation and Maintenance

Check tires regularly: Ensure proper tread depth (minimum 1.6mm) and inflation
Maintain brakes: Worn brakes are especially dangerous in wet conditions
Clean windows and mirrors: Ensure maximum visibility at all times
Check all lights: Headlights, brake lights, indicators, and hazard lights
Windshield wipers: Replace if streaking or not clearing effectively
Air conditioning/defogger: Essential for keeping windows clear in humid conditions

Emergency Preparedness

Be Prepared for Challenging Conditions

Keep your defensive driving skills sharp and practice emergency maneuvers
Be ready to handle skids or loss of control - steer gently in the direction you want to go
Avoid driving in extreme conditions if possible - delay your trip if necessary
Carry emergency supplies: flashlight, reflective triangles, first aid kit, and water
Know when to pull over safely - if visibility becomes dangerously poor
Stay informed about weather conditions before and during your journey

Common Mistakes Drivers Make

Driving too fast for conditions - the most common and dangerous mistake

Using high beams in fog (causes glare) or when another vehicle approaches

Following too closely at night or in bad weather, reducing reaction time

Ignoring hazards like wet patches, debris, or pedestrians in poor light

Driving with worn tires, especially in rainy conditions

Not using headlights at dusk or dawn when visibility is reduced

Summary (Quick Revision)

SLOW DOWN - Reduce speed in all adverse conditions

SEE AND BE SEEN - Use appropriate lights for maximum visibility

SPACE CUSHION - Increase following distance significantly

SMOOTH MOVES - Avoid sudden braking, acceleration, or turning

STAY ALERT - Watch for hazards and combat fatigue

VEHICLE READINESS - Regular maintenance saves lives in bad weather

📝 Take Quiz on This Topic

Lesson 29 of 31 • Driving in Bad Weather & at Night

Driving in Bad Weather and at Night in Ghana

Driving in Bad Weather and at Night in Ghana

Reduce Speed

Increase Distance

Use Headlights

Avoid Sudden Moves

Summary (Quick Revision)

Road Signs

Timed Test

Practice Test