Precautions for Driving in the UAE During Fog, Rain, and Hail

[مروان مصطفى]

Precautions for Driving in the UAE During Fog, Rain, and Hail The United Arab Emirates is renowned for its sunny skies, but its weather can change dramatically. Drivers must be prepared for unexpected conditions like dense fog, heavy rain, and even rare hail showers. Understanding how to handle these situations is crucial for road safety. This guide provides essential precautions to help you drive safely on UAE roads, no matter the weather.



1. Driving in Fog


Fog is one of the most dangerous weather conditions for drivers in the UAE, especially in the early mornings. It reduces visibility to a few meters and requires extreme caution.

Slow Down and Maintain Distance: This is the most critical rule. Reduce your speed significantly and increase the following distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you. A safe distance is typically twice as long as usual.

Use Low-Beam Headlights: Use your vehicle's low-beam headlights, not high beams. High beams reflect off the fog, creating a glare that worsens visibility. Fog lights should also be used if your vehicle is equipped with them.

Avoid Hazard Lights: Do not use your hazard lights while the vehicle is in motion. This can confuse other drivers, who might mistake your car for a stationary or disabled vehicle. Use them only when you have safely pulled over.

Do Not Stop on the Road: If visibility becomes zero, do not stop in the middle of the road. Carefully and slowly pull over to the side, turn off your engine, and keep your hazard lights on.



2. Driving in Rain


Rainfall in the UAE can be heavy and sudden, making roads slick and increasing the risk of accidents.

Check Your Tires and Wipers: Before the rainy season, ensure your tires have sufficient tread depth and that your windshield wipers are in good working condition.

Reduce Speed and Increase Following Distance: Wet roads make it harder to brake and stop. Reduce your speed and leave plenty of space between you and other cars to account for longer stopping distances.

Beware of Aquaplaning: Aquaplaning occurs when a layer of water builds up between your tires and the road surface, causing a loss of traction. If you feel your car losing grip, take your foot off the accelerator, avoid sudden braking, and steer straight until you regain control.

Avoid Cruise Control: Do not use cruise control during rain. It can increase the risk of aquaplaning as the system may not react quickly enough to a loss of traction.



3. Driving in Hail


While rare, hailstorms can cause significant damage and create dangerous road conditions.

Pull Over to a Safe Spot: If a hailstorm begins, the safest action is to pull over to a safe location, such as under a bridge, in a parking garage, or next to a building.

Stay Inside Your Vehicle: Do not leave your car during a hailstorm. The hail can be large enough to cause injury. The vehicle provides the best protection.

Keep Your Hands on the Wheel: Even when stationary, keep your hands on the steering wheel and away from the windows to avoid injury from any shattering glass.



General Safety Reminders


Plan Ahead: Always check the weather forecast before you start your journey, especially during the winter months.

Vehicle Maintenance: Ensure your car is in top condition, with properly inflated tires and functioning brakes and lights.

Stay Calm: Maintaining a calm and focused mindset is key to making sound decisions in challenging weather.

By following these simple yet effective precautions, you can ensure a safer journey for yourself and others on the road during any adverse weather conditions in the UAE.