The rain can be a welcome surprise, especially because it means green lawns and flowers, but wet weather contributes to over one million car accidents every year, according to AAA. To help you drive safer in the rain, we compiled some wet weather driving tips. We encourage you to read them before you drive in the rain again.
Driving safely in the rain starts before you leave your driveway. To begin, make sure your windshield wiper blades are in good working order. Also, check that all of your headlights, taillights, and turn signals are working well so other drivers can see you when the rain is coming down hard. Whenever you drive in the rain, whether it’s a light sprinkle or a downpour, turn on your lights before putting your car in drive.
Checking the Tires
Your tires matter too. To drive safely in the rain, it’s critical that you have proper tread depth and inflation as these help your vehicle maintain traction while on a wet roadway. To check your tread depth, AAA says to insert a quarter upside down into the groove. If you’re able to see above Washington’s head, it’s time to shop for new tires. Also, check the tire pressure at least once a month. The best time to check the tire pressure is when the tires are cold, according to AAA.
Do Not Use Cruise Control
Cruise control is great to avoid a speeding ticket but it’s not wise to use it in all types of weather. Cruise control is ideal for dry conditions, but you NEVER want to use it under wet conditions. Why? Because, while a vehicle is in cruise control, there’s a higher chance of the driver losing control of their vehicle. Sometimes drivers need to prevent a loss of traction. To do that, they need to reduce the vehicle’s speed by taking their foot off the accelerator and this cannot be done while the vehicle is in cruise control.
Here’s more advice to remember:
- When driving in the rain, be alert and concentrate on the task of driving – every aspect of it.
- Slow down in wet weather because driving too fast for wet conditions can result in your car hydroplaning.
- To avoid hydroplaning, slow down, avoid braking hard, and turning sharply. It’s also smart to drive in the tracks from the car in front of you.
- Allow plenty of stopping distance between your vehicle and the cars in front of you.
- Slow down when approaching intersections, when coming to a stop, and when making turns.
If your car starts to skid, look and steer in the direction that you want your car to go. Do not slam on your brakes as this will make it harder for you to control the vehicle.
Next: Safety Tips for Teen Drivers in Texas
If you need to file a car accident claim, contact The Zendeh Del Law Firm, PLLC today.