Driving in the Rain
Rain creates many challenges for drivers and it has a great impact on traffic safety. According to the Federal Highway Administration, nearly 600,000 crashes a year are caused by rain and 3,000 people are killed in rain-related accidents. Driving in the rain is more dangerous and poses more risk than driving in dry weather.
It reduces visibility, and it makes it difficult for drivers to see oncoming vehicles, pedestrians, or traffic signs. Furthermore, it reduces traction, which makes it hard to control your vehicle for proper steering and turning. Because of the increased risk of accident, you must be very careful when driving in the rain. The following tips can help you prepare before you hit the rainy roads:
1. How to Prepare Your Car
There are several parts of your car you have to inspect before driving in the rain. You should check your windshield wipers, the lighting, your tires, and your air conditioning system.
- Windshield wipers: They are an essential tool for providing good visibility. You must check them and make sure they are in good condition. If the rubber is too worn or cracked, you should replace the wipers as soon as possible.
- Lighting: Inspect the headlight and the taillight lamps, and see if they are working properly. If they are not, replace the old bulbs with new ones. You also have to remember that you are required by law to turn your lights on when it’s raining.
- Air conditioning: A functional air conditioning system helps prevent your windshield from fogging up, which can occur as a result of condensation.
2. Driving Tips
Before you go out on the road, you must be aware that driving in the rain is different from driving in dry weather. Roads are wet and slippery, so you must be extra alert at all times.
You have to use your turn signals properly, mind your speed, and maintain a safe following distance.
- Slow down speed limits should be obeyed whenever you are driving, regardless of weather conditions, but this is even more important when driving in less than perfect weather. Avoid a ticket and drive according to conditions.
- Turn your headlights on by turning your headlights on, you make sure other drivers can see you. This will also ensure good visibility and allow you to see traffic signals, other cars, and pedestrians.
- Avoid harsh braking and acceleration you should accelerate and brake as smoothly as possible, because rapid changes on a slippery surface can cause your car to skid. Your car stops more slowly in the rain, so start braking as early as possible to ensure that you have enough time to come to a safe and full stop.
Make sure that you and your vehicle are protected with Auto Insurance.