Fall is sure to bring plenty of rainy weather this year, which means lots of driving on wet roads. Oil, engine fluids and water combine to make streets extra slick. When rain is especially heavy, standing water can cause hydroplaning. Before things get too wild out there, read these smart driving tips and you’ll be able to handle the wet roads like a pro.
Love Your Tires
You can improve traction in wet weather by maintaining good tires. Make sure the tread depth is at least 2/32-inch. You can test depth using a tread depth gauge or using the penny test. Then, use a tire gauge to test for proper inflation. While you’re at it, be sure to check for any wear & tear that could result in a leak or blowout.
Use Your Lights
Be sure to use headlights while driving in rainy weather. This will allow you to see and be seen better.
Improve Visibility
There are a few things you can do to improve your visibility. Maintaining windshield wiper fluid will allow you to quickly clear your view when those first few rain drops combine with dirt and dust to create a cloudy windshield. You can also use a rain repellent product on windows and mirrors to help water run off clean and clear. Also, don’t forget to clean the inside of your windows.
Drive Slower
Driving slower also improves visibility, as well as reduces your risk of losing control and hydroplaning. It’s also wise to leave more room when following other vehicles in traffic. Other cars and trucks spray water from the road, which could further reduce your visibility in the rain. Plus, slick asphalt makes it take longer to stop.
Know How To Regain Control
If your car starts to skid, don’t panic! Continue to look and steer the car in the direction you want to go and avoid slamming on the brakes to maintain control of the vehicle.
Know When to Pull Over
If the downpour or spray from other vehicles is too heavy, just stop driving. When visibility is so low that you can’t see the edges of the road or the vehicles in front of you, pull off the road as far as possible, turn on your hazard lights and wait out the storm.
Thousands of crashes occur each year due to rainy conditions. However, all this can be prevented with just little bit of know-how and smart, quick thinking. Keep these tips in mind the next time you drive on wet roads, and you’ll be prepared for anything.