Why you should not cross Rivers and Streams in a Rented Car

Road trip holidays are perfect with a 4WD vehicle, but it’s important to avoid anything that could affect your safari vehicle’s functionality. One of the faults that can affect the functioning of your car is driving through high waters, which can happen especially during dry seasons.

Driving a 4WD vehicle in deep water can be risky and potentially dangerous. While 4WD vehicles are designed to handle challenging terrain, including shallow water crossings, driving in deep water can pose serious risks to both the vehicle and the passengers therein. It also leads to resilience, which causes the vehicle to float and lose traction.

Take caution and avoid driving through deep water unless the vehicle is specifically designed and equipped for such conditions. If you encounter deep water while driving, it’s best to find an alternate route or seek assistance from a professional. Unless you’re sure that the vehicle was designed to handle such incidents.

Unfortunately, many of the vehicles in Uganda, especially those available for hire and for safaris, besides being stronger hulks for all terrains, can be affected by passing through deeper waters.

Driving Tips for Water Crossings with a 4×4

Sometimes it’s not exceptional when opted for a certain encounter and to find out that you’re only limited to your operations by water crossing. Then, must repent and take the best direction which prevents the water issues with the car. Many 4wd aren’t prepared to be driven in the deep waters. However, the unspoiled ecosystem can be accessed still with the 4wd even though the waters have isolated such places.

Before crossing any direct waters, there are certain points to note:

Water Levels

High water levels and strong currents, especially during the rainy season, can be dangerous. If water levels are higher than the tires, abort the crossing. Higher-pressure crossing waters can be especially risky during rain, and parking in the safest spot is advisable.

Tire Pressure:

Tire pressure is critical for successful off-roading. Adjusting the tire pressure for the terrain and water crossings is essential. A longer and wider tread from airing down equals more grip. On a slippery river-rock bottom, this can be the difference between getting through or getting stuck. Tire pressures should be adjusted based on the terrain before reaching any water crossing.

Assessing the Riverbed:

Once you’ve arrived at the water crossing, the important thing is to check the bottom strata of the river. If it is sand or mud, go lower with your tire pressures. Slippery rocks will require something in the high-teens to low 20s and a firm packed base should be manageable with higher pressures.

How to reduce chances of getting stuck in high waters

Walk the Crossing

Before crossing, if possible, get out of your car and walk the crossing. Take note of any submerged objects such as rocks, logs and deep drop-offs.

Assess Water Depth and Flow

Be certain on the water depth and flow, too deep, and fast flowing water can carry the car away downstream. When crossing the waters with the car, pick the shallowest, not the deepest part of river, with the easiest terrain.

Carry Recovery Gear

Carrying the correct recovery gear, such a snatch straps or a tow rope, is essential. Ensure you have attached it to a rated recovery point and secured it out of the way. It’s easier to access once you’re stuck if it is already in place.

Consider Entry and Exit Points

Always consider the entry, the crossing and the exit point. Assess whether your vehicle can make all three. That means checking the entry and departure angles and walking both sides of the crossing to remove anything that may impede your access in or out of the crossing.