Nobody likes to drive in the rain, but it seems to be an unavoidable scenario we all have to face every now and then. When you do find yourself driving during a rain shower, it is important to adjust some of your driving methods to accommodate for the wet conditions. Driving in the rain can be very dangerous if not done properly, so it is vital to remember a few procedures to practice when you’re traveling down a slick road. At Robs we compiled some advice to share with you to help ensure that you are safe on the roadways when the weather gets bad.
Turn on those Headlights!
You may think this should be common sense, but we see countless drivers not turn their headlights on in he rain… One of the first things you should do when driving in the rain is to make sure you have your headlights on. And yes, this applies even during the day. The pouring water can easily hinder your visibility, so flicking on your lights can provide that extra aid to see what is ahead of you. Additionally, having your headlights on is imperative for other motorists to recognize your vehicle coming through the misty horizon. Having your headlights off while it is raining not only makes it more difficult for you to see, but also makes you practically invisible to the cars around you.
Keep your distance!
These two go hand in hand. The wet roadways can cause your vehicle to hydroplane if you are traveling too fast. Maintaining a speed under 35 mph typically reduces your chance of swerving on the wet roadways, but we still suggest you be cautious when making turns. In addition to simply slowing down, we also advise keeping a more conservative following distance than you typically would, as your brakes may not perform as well as usual when you need to abruptly stop on a slick street.
Stay on top of your parts!
One of the worst things that can happen when driving in the rain is having faulty equipment that can make it more dangerous for you to operate your vehicle. These primarily include making sure your tires have been checked and you have effective windshield wipers. If your tires are worn and do not have traction, then your chance of hydroplaning greatly increases. Additionally, having defective wipers that do not properly clear the water from your windshield can obstruct your visibility and make it severely dangerous to drive. Always be prepared, and if you need new wipers, our Service Department has them in stock on a daily basis.
So please, be extra careful when driving in the rain, or any kind of nasty weather conditions. If you’re unsure about your vehicle’s capabilities to handle the “not so nice” weather, call our Service Department and schedule an appointment to have us make sure your good to go!
Thanks for checking in and have a great Summer!
– Rob’s Automotive & Collision