Safe Driving in Rainy Weather

It seems like this is the time of year when rain and threatening weather is a daily occurrence. And when it does rain, it usually comes down in buckets, making for dangerous driving conditions. Here are a few tips that will help you to safely navigate those rain soaked roads.

Slow Down – First and foremost, drive a little slower. This will minimize the hydroplane effect which is when a tire rides up on a film of water, losing contact with the pavement, similar to driving on ice. Slowing down will also provide a little more reaction time for you to avert a dangerous situation.

Situational Awareness – You hear this term used in military jargon a lot, but situational awareness can also be applied to improve your driving skills. It means to be aware and focused on your surroundings. Above and below you, front and back, to your right side and left side. The heavy rain that is falling from above will soon be on the road surface below you and will reduce your tires traction. Look in front of you as far down the road as possible to avoid a collision and use your mirrors to look behind you to see if someone’s closing rate could endanger you. Also glace to the right and left to make sure someone is not drifting over into your lane.

Tires – Worn tires create a hazardous condition. This is especially true when the payment is wet. Newer tires will channel away water and reduce the hydroplane effect. The simplest way to check the tread on your tires is with a penny. Insert the penny into the grooves of the tread. If you are able to see all of Lincoln’s head, the tire needs to be replaced.

Increase Your Visibility -  Simple put: see and be seen. Rainy weather affects driver visibility. 90 percent of driving decisions depend on good vision. Worn wiper blades will streak and smear your windshield and impair your vision. Replacing worn wiper blades is an easy and very inexpensive fix. Also make sure your headlights, taillights, brake lights and all maker lights are in good working order. These are also inexpensive repairs that will go a long way to improving your ability to see and be seen.   

Although no one likes driving in the rain, especially on the commute home, you can make the trip a little more safer just by following these simple tips.