Driving in the rain can be challenging, but following a few tips and safety measures can avoid accidents and have a smoother ride. This blog post will discuss the dos and don’ts of driving in the rain to help you stay safe.
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The Dos of Driving in the Rain
Before hitting the road on a rainy day, take these actions to ensure your safety:
Inspect Your Car
Before setting out, inspect the components of your car, including the headlights, tail lights, turn signals, brakes, windshield wipers, and tires. Check your tires’ tread depth to grip wet surfaces adequately.
Slow Down
When precipitation occurs, slow down significantly, and remain aware of your speed even when the rain has abated. Always allow an extra cushion of time to stop and give yourself enough space between cars while navigating wet roads. Look out for spots prone to hydroplaning, especially around turns.
Maintain Distance
Maintain enough distance between your vehicle and the one ahead of you, as reaction times and stopping distances are extended on wet roads.
Utilize Your Wipers and Headlights
Utilize your windshield wipers on an intermittent speed and clear any fogged windows to increase visibility. Set your headlights on to improve your visibility in the rain and make other drivers more aware of your presence.
The Don’ts of Driving in the Rain
To avoid accidents while driving in the rain, keep these reminders in mind:
Don’t Use Hazard Lights
Please avoid using your hazard lights, as they can confuse other drivers on the road.
Avoid Driving Through Floods
Never drive through floods; even shallow water can cause irreparable damage to your engine, create a loss of traction and visibility, and increase your chances of being swept away.
Never Slam on Your Brakes
Braking too suddenly can cause your tires to lose grip on the road, leaving you vulnerable to a skid or hydroplaning, leading to a severe accident. If you need to reduce speed quickly, make sure that you brake gently and evenly.
Don’t Drive Too Fast
Drive slower on wet surfaces as wet surfaces dramatically reduce tire traction, making it more likely for your vehicle to skid off the road or lose control.
Never Use Your Cell Phone
Using a hand-held cellular device while driving distracts your focus and attention from the road. If you can’t avoid using it, pause driving and return to the road once you’re done.
Car Maintenance Tips for Rainy Weather
Maintaining healthy car systems is critical for a safe and effective ride, no matter the weather. Below are some tips to remember when it comes to car maintenance for rainy weather:
Clean Your Windows and Windshield
When it rains, dirt and debris can accumulate on your vehicle’s windows and windshield, obscuring your view when driving and making it dangerous for yourself and others. To ensure maximum visibility while driving in the rain, clean your windows and windshield regularly. This should include wiping them down with a soft cloth and glass cleaner to give them a clear shine.
Verify Your Car’s Brakes
Driving safely in wet weather can be significantly more difficult if your brakes aren’t working correctly. Check the brake pads and rotors for visible signs of wear and tear and have them replaced or repaired if necessary. If your vehicle pulls in one direction when braking, this could be a sign that further brake work is needed.
Examine the Battery
Periodically check the battery, its terminals, and its connectors for any signs of corrosion or dampness. If there is a reduction in performance or power output, it may mean it needs to be replaced or serviced.
Bring Spare Tires With You
When driving in wet conditions, carrying extra tires and wheels is wise if your current set becomes damaged or flat. Additionally, ensure the tires on your car have a good tread depth; this will help ensure your vehicle can better grip the road and avoid hydroplaning, even when driving at high speeds down wet roads.
Replace the Wiper Blades
When exposed to constant wet weather, wiper blade rubber can quickly become worn and less effective in clearing rain from the windshield. Upgrade to new wiper blades with improved durability to better see the road and potentially avoid dangerous situations, such as hydroplaning.
Final Thoughts
Although it may seem like a pain to deal with rain while driving, following the dos and don’ts listed above can make it smoother, so the next time you drive in the rain, remember to take extra care and drive slower than usual. Doing so will decrease your chances of getting into an accident.