There are many things we can control when we’re on the road, but the one thing bound to leave you in the lurch is the weather. It’s always unpredictable, and manages to find some way to make your journey more of a hassle than it needs to be.
But you can do many things to ensure you’re staying as safe as you can on the road. Driving in the rain is no one’s favorite thing, but following the steps below can ensure you stay as safe as possible.
How to stay safe in wet weather
1. Hold off if you can
If you don’t have to make the journey you’re about to embark on, or you can delay it until the weather improves, this is the best course of action.
2. Check your tires
Ensuring your tires are in the best condition possible is the best way to keep you safe in the wet weather. Investing in a great tire brand like Lionhart Tires will give you the peace of mind you need when traveling in the rain. A tire with a deep tread depth will ensure you have enough traction to brake safely and effectively on the road.
3. Test your brakes before you leave
Brakes are also imperative to staying safe on the road. Braking in the rain can take longer to come into effect, and there is a higher chance of skidding. However, checking your brakes before you leave means you can feel confident in your braking ability.
4. Avoid heavy braking
Braking is necessary when driving, but take extra care when driving in the rain. When you need to brake, make sure you’re doing it gently. Tap your brakes a little at a time rather than hitting the brakes hard. This will reduce your chances of skidding.
5. Check your wipers
You’ll be using your wipers a lot in the rain, so checking them before you leave is a must. Ensuring that your windscreen is clear, ensure you have full visibility.
6. Stay back from other drivers
As braking distance increases when it’s wet outside, staying back from other drivers gives you longer to react and longer for your brakes to come into play before any potential contact with drivers in front of you. Giving the car in front of you enough room helps everyone stay safe on the road.
7. Check your lights
Ensure you’ve got your lights on when driving in the rain so other drivers can see you. This is especially true if you have a light-colored car, as they are more difficult to see in wet weather. Grey and white cars can be particularly difficult to spot in torrential rain.
8. Avoid standing water
If you see standing water, make sure you go around it if you can. If there’s no way to avoid it, slow right down before going through it. You could even turn on your hazard lights to tell other drivers of the danger.
9. Ventilate your car
Rain increases the humidity and can result in your car windows and windscreen fogging up. Keeping a window open slightly can reduce the moisture of your vehicle and stop fogging. This will ensure you have as much visibility as possible while driving.
10. Take your foot off the gas if you hydroplane
The biggest mistake to make if you hydroplane is to panic and slam on the brakes. This is the opposite of what you should be doing. If you start hydroplane, take your feet off everything in the car and steer in the direction you want to be going. The water will slow the car down, and you can regain control.
Driving in the rain shouldn’t be a cause for concern. As long as you’re making the recommended checks on your car and taking extra care, you’ll be as right as rain!
