Traffic warning against crossing valleys: fines and dangers of driving in the rain

The General Directorate of Traffic in Saudi Arabia has renewed its warnings to drivers about the serious dangers of crossing valleys and ravines during rainfall and flash floods. This warning comes as several regions of the Kingdom are experiencing rainy weather, necessitating heightened caution to protect lives and property.

Dangers of crossing valleys and reefs

The official Saudi Traffic account on the "X" platform explained that attempting to cross valleys is not merely a traffic violation, but a dangerous gamble that could cost the lives of the driver and passengers. The Traffic Department identified four main reasons why this behavior is extremely risky:

• Vehicle slippage and loss of control: Running water and mud cause the tires to lose traction with the ground.
• Sudden engine stall: Water entering the "air filter" or electrical parts causes the vehicle to stall in the middle of the flood.
• Difficulty of rescue operations: Being in the path of the flood hinders the timely arrival of civil defense teams due to the strength of the water flow.
• Endangering lives: This is the most important reason, as the vehicle becomes a trap for passengers if it is swept away by floods.

Legal and regulatory context

From a regulatory standpoint, the consequences extend beyond physical risks to include strict legal penalties. Saudi Arabian traffic laws stipulate that attempting to cross wadis and ravines while they are flowing is a serious traffic violation, punishable by a fine of up to 10,000 Saudi Riyals. This legislation aims to deter reckless drivers and reduce the number of fatal accidents that occur annually during the rainy season, reflecting the authorities' commitment to enhancing public safety.

Reasons for vehicles veering off course on wet roads

In a related context, the traffic department highlighted the phenomenon of vehicles suddenly swerving while driving in rainy weather, pointing to six main causes that should be avoided:

• Driving at speeds exceeding the permitted limits reduces reaction time.
• Worn-out vehicle tires or improper air pressure, which weakens friction with the road.
• Heavy rainfall that leads to the phenomenon of "water accumulation" under tires (Hydroplaning).
• Neglecting the comprehensive periodic vehicle inspection to ensure the safety of the brakes and wipers.
• Being distracted from the road by using a phone or other things, which diverts attention at critical moments.
• Changing lanes suddenly without using warning lights.

The importance of community awareness

These warnings are part of a comprehensive national strategy to reduce traffic accidents, integrating traffic efforts with those of the Civil Defense and the National Center for Meteorology. Experts emphasize that public awareness is the first line of defense; respecting nature and not underestimating the power of flash floods are fundamental to ensuring everyone's safety during the rainy season.