Driving in the rain can be one of the most difficult situations a driver encounters on the road. A heavy downpour or even just a slight sprinkle can result in increased accidents on the road. It is best to avoid driving in the rain especially if you are inexperienced. However, it is not always possible to avoid driving in the rain if you need to get to work or to another destination. The tips below can help you drive safely in the rain so that you don’t get into a car accident.
Wait Until The Rain Improves
If you are uncomfortable or inexperienced with driving in the rain then you should wait until the weather improves. You should never put yourself in danger.
Make Sure The Equipment In Your Car Is In Good Condition
Visibility is very limited when it’s raining so it is important that you are able to see your windshield and mirrors while driving. You should clean your windshield and windows at least once a month but more often is preferable. Also, make sure that your windshield wipers are in good condition. Don’t forget to check your washer fluid once or twice a week. You should inspect your taillights, headlights, turn signals, and tire treads daily so that you don’t get a ticket or in an accident. Balding tires are a hazard on the road, especially in wet weather.
Know The Roads Your Driving On
Roads are built to withstand different weather conditions across the country. So if you are not familiar with the roads or are new to the area then you should drive cautiously during and after a storm. In many southern states, the asphalt is not as compressed so the road may look dry but it is not dry. The water will be picked up by your tires and cause them to get wet and slick even if you don’t even realize it.
If the route you are taking leads you through bridges with a low lying underpass or past ditches prone to flooding, you should take the freeway instead to avoid getting in an accident.
Drive Slightly Slower Than The Speed Limit
You should always drive at the proper speed limit and considerably slower when on a wet surface. Wet roads are very dangerous and your car can easily skid off the road. So a reduced speed is a must when driving on rainy days. Don’t feel pressured to drive at the speed limit, the speed limit is used for perfect weather and road conditions.
Turn On Your Headlights
Most states including Texas are required for drivers to have their headlights turned on when the visibility is less than 1,000 feet and when it rains. Even if its only misting drivers are still required to turn their headlights on. Make sure your taillights are also on that way other cars can identify all four corners of your vehicle. Doing so will increase your visibility and the ability of other drivers to see you on the road. DO NOT turn on your brights though, doing so will cause the light to reflect on the ground and back to your eyes blinding both you and other drivers.
Use The Windshield Wipers
It is common sense to use your windshield wipers while it’s raining to increase visibility but some people may forget to turn on their wipers in light rain. Most cars have different speeds adjusted for light rain and heavy downpour. There are also other products in the market that claim to yield the collection of rainwater.
Maintain a Safe Distance Between Other Cars
Keep a safe distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you. Stopping your car in the rain is more difficult in wet weather so it is crucial that you keep a greater distance than you normally would between you and other cars.
Avoid Braking Too Hard
Remove your foot off the accelerator way before you normally would to prepare to slow down or stop. Avoid using cruise control so that your attention is focused on both the gas and brake.
Drive Safely on Standing Water
Driving on standing water can cause your car to hydroplane. Hydroplane is when you lose traction and skid across the surface of the road. To avoid your car from hydroplaning, drive around areas where there is no standing water by changing lanes or safely steering around standing water areas. Standing water can get too deep and cause your car to stall.
Slowly Let Off The Gas When Your Car Hydroplanes
Hydroplaning is one of the most common causes of car accidents because drivers can lose control of their vehicles. If you car hydroplanes, remain calm and slowly remove your foot from the accelerator and steer in the direction you are going and avoid slamming on your brakes or making any sudden turns.
Ventilate Your Car While Driving in The Rain
Rain causes the humidity level to increase so your car will start to get foggy when your driving in the rain. Most cars have a ventilation function that will reduce the fogginess on the interior of your windows and windshield. Pullover if you are not able to see through your windows, do not continue to drive.
Stay Safe!
Staying safe while driving in the rain is very important and relatively easy if you follow these safety tips. Remember that reducing your speed, turning on your headlights, windshield wipers, ventilation system, and keeping a safe distance between other vehicles are the most effective ways of reducing or avoiding a car accident on a rainy day. However, car accidents can still occur even if you safely maneuver your vehicle in the rain. If this were to happen, you should know what to do after a car accident.
If you or a loved one experienced a car accident while driving in the rain, speak to Joe I. Zaid & Associates now to get you back on your feet and recover the compensation you deserve. You can send us a message via our live chat or fill out our free consultation form. You can also reach us at (346) 756-9243.
