Driving in the rain can be a scary thing, and in the night, it is even worse. It is difficult to see out of the window, and the other car’s lights seem to make it worse.
Here are some tips on how to avoid getting into an accident when it is raining.
Hands on the Steering Wheel
Keep both hands on the steering wheel at all times! Keep all distractions, such as cell phones or even the radio, off and away from you. While focus to your front, do take a look in back view mirror as well right hand side and left hand side so that you get an 360 degree over view what is happening around any mud slide or falling tree, electric pole, hanging electrical wires or in-coming hazard.
Headlights On
Turn on your headlights. Many cities require headlights when it’s raining, even in broad daylight. This will make it easier for you to see what is in front of you; thus, preventing any accidents.
Minimum Following Distance
Keep a minimum of a good five car length from the car in front of you. You never know what other drivers are going to do or what could happen to you! If that feels too close or too far a rule of thumb is one second of following distance per 10 mph (16 km/h). That holds true especially in bad weather.
Reasonable Speed Limit
Drive at or below the speed limit to the extent that you are comfortable with, and can see far enough in front of you to appropriately make driving decisions.
Tyre Maximum Speed Limit
Be aware that the maximum speed at which you can drive is directly related to your tyres. Be sure to know what their condition is in. Radial tyres have better traction than the old bias ply polyester tires, but even they lose their ability to grip wet pavement and channel water out as the tread wears out.
Beware of Hydroplaning
Be aware of hydroplaning. This is where your vehicle travels on top of the water and has no or very little contact with the ground. Your traction is reduced significantly. To safely get out of a hydroplaning situation let off the gas and steer straight or slightly in the direction you must go. Do not make sudden motions and remain calm.
Flooded Roads
Avoid flooded roads. Never drive through standing or flowing water in a road way unless you have no choice or you are able to follow someone else to judge the depth of the water. Flooding the engine of your car can cause the engine to stall, and deep water can actually float your car and take it off the roadway.
Use Your Defroster
Turn on the defroster if the windshield begins to fog. In hot, muggy weather, air conditioned air (which cannot contain as much moisture) will usually clear the inside of the windshield faster than non-air conditioned.
The Brake Factor
Be aware that brakes can be affected by water. Wet drum type brakes are especially prone to decreased stopping power after driving through deep water.
Tyres, Windshield and Wipers
Those tires and windshield wipers are important. Make sure you get new windshield wipers yearly and it’s always a good rule of thumb to once a week check your tires for proper inflation and tread. If you have little to no tread on your tires you run the risk of sliding around and hydroplaning easier. New windshield wipers will give you better visibility so you can travel as safely as possible and be aware of what’s ahead.
Potholes
Watch for splashing from potholes and pools of water that accumulate at clogged storm drain pipes and low areas of the pavement. Highways also develop “ruts” where the heaviest traffic tracks and you may be able to position your vehicle while remaining in your lane to avoid these.
