Learning to drive in the rain safely is extremely important. When it rains the road becomes wet and slippery; it’s harder to keep traction and takes a longer time to come to a complete stop. If you hit the brakes too hard or make a sharp turn it can cause your car to skid. Prepare yourself for hazardous weather by reading up on tips and tricks on how to keep control of your car!
Begin To Slow Down When It Starts Raining
It is important to slow down as soon as the rain starts to fall! Don’t wait until the rain begins pouring before you begin slowing. Oftentimes roads are most slick when the first raindrops begin to fall and mix with dirt and oil which forms a greasy film and unstable driving conditions.
For example, if you’re driving in an area where the speed limit is 50 MPH, begin to slow to speeds around 35 MPH.
Turn On Your Headlights
Not only will this make it easier for other drivers to spot you on the road, but it will also help you navigate through the rain more easily. Please note that pouring rain can greatly hinder your vision at times, even with your headlights on.
Avoid Driving With Worn-Out Tires
The grooves in your tires are strategically placed to channel water from the surface of the road. If your tires are worn, there is less tread therefore less traction available. This makes it exponentially more dangerous to drive on wet and slippery surfaces.
Know How To Control A Skid
If your car starts to skid or hydroplane (skim the surface of water while moving at high speed) you are driving too fast. This is when your tires lose contact with the road and can have devastating outcomes. If you find yourself mid-skid or actively hydroplaning it is important to stay calm, remove your foot from the gas pedal and maintain your hold on the wheel to safely guide your car out of the hazardous area.
Distance Yourself From Other Vehicles
Keep your distance from other vehicles when driving in the rain. Braking distances should be extended on wet roads.The longer the distance, the longer the reaction time.
Stay Away From Standing Water
Avoid standing water if at all possible. If approached incorrectly your car will hydroplane and you might lose control of your vehicle. Hydroplaning is when your vehicle hits deeper water and loses contact with the road. Standing water may be unrecognizable such as a puddle beneath piles of leaves. Always be hyper aware of your surroundings when the ground is wet; this awareness could be the difference in avoiding a major accident.
If you do hit standing water, do not turn away from it. Driving directly across the area while avoiding acceleration is the best approach to assure the drivers safety.
All Star Driver Education wants to make sure our students learn how to drive safe in all environments. Take one of our many online courses filled with important tips and educational videos.
