– Motorists, particularly motorcyclists and those travelling on expressways, have been urged to reduce speed and exercise extra caution amid a rise in road accidents during the prevailing rainy and gloomy weather conditions.

Deputy Inspector General of Traffic Control and Road Safey W.P.J. Senadheera said wet roads, poor visibility and dark skies before and during rainfall could increase the risk of accidents.“A significant number of recent accidents have involved motorcycles. In many cases, riders travelling at excessive speeds have lost control of their vehicles while braking on slippery roads. Some of these incidents have resulted in collisions with pedestrians,” he said.

He said other types of vehicles had also been involved in similar accidents and urged motorists to be particularly cautious when travelling on expressways during rainy weather.“Please travel at a speed that remains within your control. Motorists should not drive at high speeds when roads are wet and visibility is poor,” DIG Senadheera said.He also advised motorists to switch on their headlights during dark and gloomy conditions and use fog lights, where available and appropriate, when visibility is reduced.

“If visibility is poor, motorists should use their headlights so that they can see other vehicles and ensure that they are visible to those approaching from the front or behind. Several accidents have occurred under such conditions,” he said.He urged all road users to adjust their speed to suit the prevailing weather and road conditions to minimize accidents and protect the lives of motorists, passengers and pedestrians.