"Reduce Speed When It Rains"...Maintain Safe Distance and Watch for Pedestrians

Fatality Rate of Accidents on Wet Roads Is 1.2 Times Higher

The National Police Agency announced on June 15 that, due to the increasing frequency of localized heavy rains during the summer, it is necessary for drivers to reduce speed and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.

Vehicles are driving on the road amid localized heavy rain. Photo by Yonhap News

According to the police, accidents on wet roads occur consistently at a rate of about 10% each year, and the fatality rate for accidents on wet roads is approximately 1.2 times higher than that of regular accidents.

Drivers are required to reduce their speed below the posted speed limit when driving on wet roads or wet surfaces. Many people mistakenly believe this is a recommended speed, but it is a mandatory regulation that must be followed. When the road surface is wet due to rain, drivers must reduce their speed by 20%. In cases of heavy rain or heavy snow, drivers must reduce their speed by 50%. Pedestrians should wear bright-colored clothing on rainy days and must avoid jaywalking even more strictly.

If a vehicle enters a flooded area, it is difficult to determine the depth of the water. In such cases, drivers should observe nearby vehicles or check by leaning out, and if the water level reaches more than half the height of the wheels, the vehicle should be turned around and moved to a safe place. Underpasses that are lower than ground level and fill with water quickly, as well as bridges that are overflowing, should never be entered regardless of the water level. If already inside, drivers should exit the vehicle and use railings, walls, or other supports to move toward the side opposite to where the flooding is progressing.

An official from the National Police Agency stated, "We hope that everyone on the road can travel safely by checking safety equipment in advance and paying extra attention to their surroundings in preparation for heavy summer rains." The official added, "Taking into account the unpredictable nature of localized heavy rain, we will do our utmost by conducting preemptive facility inspections and establishing emergency response systems."