Tips for Driving on Wet Roads

Rainy weather makes roads slippery

Vehicles driving carelessly on wet roads should expect consequences. While you can’t control how others drive, you can learn some tips to make sure you drive safely during wet weather.

It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint

The speed limit says one number, but imagine it’s a different one while driving in the rain. Drive two to three miles under the speed limit so your vehicle won’t hydroplane. Hydroplning occurs when tires rise above the water instead of staying planted on the ground. When you’re driving, slow down before turning or stopping. Also, leave space between your own vehicle and the one in front of you, in case you have to hit the breaks. This is why using cruise control can be very dangerous during rainy weather.

Turn off Cruise Control

The whole point of cruise control is to maintain a particular speed throughout the journey. Cruise control doesn’t help when it’s raining. The speed set is for dry roads and will cause vehicles to lose traction and spin out of control. Regain control by turning off cruise control and driving slower than usual.

Leave Early

Rush hour and road rage make drivers aggressive, and the rain will make drivers even worse. Avoid such a scenario by leaving early. Since you’ll have to drive slowly in the rain, leaving early will give you the time you need to reach your destination safely. In addition, leaving early gives you more time to concentrate on the road and maneuver around possible accidents and detours.

Turn on Headlights

While it sometimes rains while the sun is out, rain tends brings cloudiness, making roads darker. Drivers should turn on headlights to see the road, pedestrians, objects, and vehicles within view properly. Daylight and regular headlights are acceptable. What’s not acceptable in rainy weather are high beams and hazard lights. High beam lights distract you and other drivers. Hazard lights are for disabled drivers only, not for the rain. Call roadside assistance from your auto insurance company if your vehicle’s headlights aren’t working properly.

Be Careful while Driving Through Standing Water

Puddles of water might look small and easy to drive through, but when you actually cross it, it’s too late to turn around. However, you can’t tell simply by looking at it. In conclusion, never gamble on standing water of any size. If you see a puddle and you aren’t sure how deep it is, don’t try to drive through it and instead make a U-turn.

Awareness

Awareness on the road during light and heavy rain conditions will help in preventing accidents, so put your phone away. If your vehicle skids, regain control by steering it in the desired direction before it’s past the point of return. Stay calm and don’t slam the brakes. In any case, MR Towing Services is standing by in the event that you call them. It’s not a bad idea to have our number saved in your contacts in case of an emergency.