7 Tips for Driving Your Car in the Rain
When you hear about rain in the forecast for your morning commute, you think nothing of it. After all, you’ve had your license for years and driving through the rain comes naturally to you. Yet, many drivers get overly confident and, as a result, become less aware of their surroundings and speed on wet roads. In response, after what seemed like an ordinary rain shower, you’re calling your insurance carrier to file an accident claim.
Before you reach this step, make sure to do the following while out on the road in the rain.
- Know the Dangers
According to figures from the U.S. Department of Transportation, rain and wet pavement are behind 950,000 crashes per year, including 4,700 fatalities and another 384,000 injuries. As these numbers show, at times it can be more dangerous to drive in rain than snow. While you might feel more at ease, rain decreases visibility and tire friction on the pavement. The latter is worse at the start of a storm because oil rises from the asphalt, making the roads even slicker, and often leads to hydroplaning. However, even when you drive at or below the speed limit in the rain, the slippery surface complicates braking and steering, making it very easy for a driver to lose control.
- Go Slow
If it’s raining, drive slower than normal to allow yourself more time to reach your destination. These two steps help decrease your hydroplaning risks, which can happen with just one-twelfth of an inch of water on the road at 35 MPH. Should this happen, slowly take your foot off the accelerator and steer in a straight line, until you regain control.
- Wait a Moment
Since the roads become the slickest right when the storm starts, avoid going out when the first drops fall. Instead, wait as long as you can so that that the pavement is less slippery.
- Keep Your Lights on
Most states require your headlights to be turned on when the windshield wipers are in motion – even in broad daylight. Although you may hesitate to do this, your headlights make it easier for other motorists and pedestrians to see you, especially in conditions with low visibility.
- Keep Your Distance
Ordinarily, you’re expected to stay two to three seconds behind other motorists. When it rains, add another one or two seconds. When the pavement is slick and your car is harder to control, allowing more space between vehicles also allows drivers enough time to react to traffic patterns. For instance, slamming too hard and too fast on the brakes can result in a spinout.
- Be Alert and Avoid Cruise Control
When rain hits, do not drive on cruise control. Rather, pay attention to the cars in front, behind and to the sides of you, watch for signs and signals and keep side streets in your peripheral vision. You’ll need to be prepared for any cars that suddenly pull out in front of you or stop abruptly, so you can react in time.
Also, using cruise control in any dangerous weather conditions can make a driver less alert. With all of these factors combined, it becomes easy for you to lose control, or even fall asleep at the wheel.
- Keep Your Car Tuned Up
Poor vehicle maintenance can lead to an accident in the rain, even when you’re an alert, responsible driver. As a result, make sure to check the following before a storm:
- Tire pressure. Driving with low pressure makes it easier to hydroplane.
- Your windshield wipers. You shouldn’t see streaks or hear squeaks during a storm.
- All head, tail, brake and turn signal lights. These help your vehicle to be seen in poor conditions.
Are you searching for car insurance or looking to upgrade your existing coverage? Learn more about your options with Ion Insurance. Give us a call today at 203.439.2815.
