Chapter 7: Riding in Various Conditions

Riding in Rain

• Reduce speed significantly — roads are most slippery in the first 10 minutes of rain
• Increase following distance — braking distances double or triple on wet roads
• Use headlights — even in daytime rain, turn on your lights so others can see you
• Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns
• Avoid riding through puddles — they may hide potholes
• Watch for oil slicks, painted road markings, and metal surfaces — these become extremely slippery
• Use both brakes gently and progressively

Related Signs

Riding at Night

• Use headlights — mandatory from 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM
• Reduce speed — your visibility range is limited to the area lit by your headlights
• Keep your headlight lens clean
• Use low beam when following another vehicle or when oncoming traffic approaches
• Wear reflective or bright clothing
• Ensure your tail light and reflectors are working
• Be extra cautious at intersections — it is harder to judge distances at night

Riding in Traffic Congestion

• Stay patient and avoid aggressive weaving between vehicles
• Maintain a safe distance even at low speeds
• Watch for car doors opening suddenly
• Be visible — position yourself where drivers can see you
• Avoid filtering through very tight gaps between vehicles

Urban Roads

• Watch for pedestrians, especially near bus stops and shops
• Be alert for vehicles pulling out of parking spaces or side roads
• Follow lane markings strictly
• Be prepared for frequent stops

Rural Roads

• Watch for animals crossing the road
• Roads may be narrower with no shoulder
• Be cautious of slow-moving agricultural vehicles
• Road surfaces may be uneven or have gravel

Different Road Surfaces

• Gravel or loose surfaces: Reduce speed, avoid sudden steering or braking
• Speed humps: Slow down before the hump, not on it
• Wet leaves or mud: Treat as a slippery surface — reduce speed
• Painted lines and metal covers: Can be slippery when wet — avoid riding on them