Dannevirke: Beware of summer ice

Rain on dry roads can be as slippery as ice.

Rain on dry roads can be as slippery as ice, warns Horizons Regional Council road safety co-ordinator Debbie Webster.

"Rain is fantastic news for our region at the moment and we'd like to see more of it, but these kinds of showers can pose a hazard for drivers after long, dry spells," said Ms Webster, the road safety co-ordinator for the Tararua and Horowhenua.

"Dust, dirt, oil and a multitude of other material builds up on the road surface. When it rains after being dry for so long, this greasy cocktail can make the road surface extremely slippery.

"Nicknamed summer ice, it's similar to driving on black ice in winter. Because drivers can't see it, it can lead to potentially deadly situations particularly if drivers aren't aware and don't adjust their driving to suit the conditions."

Ms Webster said the greatest risk to drivers was just after the onset of rain, but it could affect the road surface for hours.

"I encourage anyone driving in the rain or on damp roads after a long dry spell to reduce their speed, take extra care on curves, increase their following distances and be sure to check tyre tread and air pressure," she said.

"Properly inflated tyres with good tread depth are a must for safe travel, but even more so in slippery conditions."

-More information on summer ice including tips on how to stay safe is available from the New Zealand Transport Agency website http://www.nzta.govt.nz/traffic/driving-safely/docs/summer-ice-know-the-dangers-201402.pdf or by contacting a Horizons road safety co-ordinator on toll free 0508 800 800.