One of the difficult times that drivers experience is during rain. Driving in the rain is not only stressful but as well very life-threatening. Thus, it is vital to take wet weather seriously and be cautious as you drive. Driving in the rain may be dangerous but not impossible. There are a number of things you ought to do in order to drive safely in this tricky weather. This includes making sure that your vehicle is in the best condition and following some rules. Here is what you need to do:
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Clean and maintain your car
One of the first things to consider when driving in rain is visibility. Hence, you should ensure that nothing obstructs you on your windscreen by thoroughly cleaning it regularly. Always clean the inside and outside of your car windows in order to get rid of dirt, dust, smoke, grime, fingerprints, and mud. Also, ensure that your headlights are fully functional and in the right direction. Don’t forget to check your tires as a flat tire is dangerous. If it doesn’t have a grip, ensure that you replace it with a new one. So, check the tread.
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Turn on your windshield wipers
Besides keeping your windshield clean, you can as well improve your visibility in wet conditions by making sure that your wipes are up to the task, and by utilizing the ideal washer fluid. Change your rubber wipers every year to prevent them from cracking, breaking, or from failing to seal well.
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Slow down
Wet weather is very dangerous driving in. Hence, you need to adjust your speed accordingly so that you can avoid any mistakes. Reduce your speed as wet roads reduce your traction and slowing down lowers the chances of you skidding out and will provide you with enough time to react to emergencies.
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Remain focused
Whether the weather is good or not, you should always stay focused on the road. It is very vital to pay attention to the road, other vehicles, and pedestrians. Since the weather is wet and visibility is kind of a problem, more attention is needed so that you are not hindered to stop in case of an emergence.
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Drive with both hands on the wheel
When driving, always ensure that your hands are at 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock on the steering wheel. This provides you with maximum control in case you want to turn, swerve, or even react rapidly. With such wet conditions, it is very convenient and safe for you to drive with both hands on the wheel.
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Ensure lights are turned on
It is highly recommended that you turn your lights on when it’s raining. It doesn’t matter if it’s day or night. Actually, in some states, it is illegal to drive without putting on lights. Lights help identify another car and see the road clearly due to the cloudiness caused by rain.
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Give the car in front of you some space
Make sure that you leave some gap between you and the car in front of you. This helps give you enough time to react or pull an emergency brake in case of anything. Also, the car in front of you might spray things that reduce your visibility and when it rains, it becomes even worse.
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Avoid slamming on the brakes
When you slam on the brakes, it might cause you to slide forward and you won’t be in a position to control the car. As well, hitting the brakes too hard can as well force water into your brakes, making them be less effective. Instead of breaking, you can slow down by easing off the accelerator. Also, when turning, do it slowly and carefully.
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Avoid using cruise control
Cruise control is great when it is dry, but in wet conditions, it can cause problems and increases the chances of hydroplaning. This is because it is not able to tell if there is water on the road or not.
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Avoid hydroplaning
Avoid hydroplaning under all conditions. Hydroplaning takes place when a car is moving so fast in heavy rains, making the car’s tires travel on a thin layer of water instead of gripping the surface of the road.
These are some of the tips for safe driving in rain. Follow them to drive safely to your destination.