Driving in the rain can be a scary thing, and in the night, it is even worse.
It is difficult to see out of the window, and the other car's lights seems to
make it worse. Especially when you begin to hydroplane! Here are some tips to
avoid getting into an accident while it's raining.
Steps:
Steps:
-
Keep both hands on the steering wheel at all times! Keep all distractions, such as cell phones or even the radio, off and away from you.
-
Turn on your headlights. Many states in the U.S. require headlights when it is raining, even in broad daylight.
-
Keep a minimum of a good five car length from the car in front of you. You never know what other drivers are going to do or what could happen to you! If that feels too close or too far a rule of thumb is 1 second of following distance per 10 miles per hour. That holds true especially in bad weather.
-
Drive at or below the speed limit to the
extent that you are comfortable with, and can see far enough in front of you to
appropriately make driving decisions.
-
Be aware that the maximum speed at which you can drive is DIRECTLY related to your tires. Be sure to know what their condition is in. Radial tires have better traction than the old bias ply polyester tires, but even they lose their ability to grip wet pavement and channel water out as the tread wears out.
-
Be aware of hydroplaning. This is where your vehicle travels on top of the water and has NO or very little contact with the ground. Your traction is reduced significantly. To safely get out of a hydroplaning situation let off the gas and steer straight or slightly in the direction you must go. Do not make sudden motions and remain calm.
-
Avoid flooded roads. Never drive through standing or flowing water in a road way unless you have no choice or you are able to follow someone else to judge the depth of the water. Flooding the engine of your car can cause the engine to stall, and deep water can actually float your car and take it off the roadway.
-
Turn on the defroster if the windshield
begins to fog. In hot, muggy weather, air conditioned air (which cannot
contain as much moisture) will usually clear the inside of the windshield faster
than non air conditioned.
- Be aware that brakes can be affected by
water. Wet drum type brakes are especially prone to decreased stopping power
after driving through deep water.
-
Watch for splashing from potholes and pools of water that accumulate at clogged storm drain pipes and low areas of the pavement. Highways also develop "ruts" where the heaviest traffic tracks, and you may be able to position your vehicle while remaining in your lane to avoid these.
-
Use a rain repellent product on side windows and mirrors to clear standing raindrops .
-
Beware ,especially at night,
motorcycles can be camouflaged amongst glistening raindrops on side glass and
mirrors.
