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Safety Tips For Driving In The Rain

ByMatsumoto Naoki-December 22, 2020

It is the best if we can stay at home, have a cup of coffee while enjoying the rain. But in some situations that you really need to go out, these advises might provide a safe drive in heavy rain.

Advises For A Safe Drive In Heavy Rain

Driving in the rain is scary and dangerous, but following these safety tips during rainy season can helps drivers handle any storm.

Take Your Time

Rushing in rainy weather is dangerous (photo source: mommasaid)

One of the best tips to avoid accident while driving in the rain is to slow down. Some drivers don’t enjoy the idea of slowing down just because of a little rain, but it actually helps. Also remember that the most dangerous moment to drive is right after the rain started, as the water mixes with roadway oils,results in the slickest road. Rather than rushing to your destination, waiting for a moment and slowing down can be a much safer plan.

Slowing down also keep your vehicle from hydroplaning. You might think that everything is under control, but it is a different story when hydroplaning occurs. When this phenomenon happens, your tires will mainly contact with the thin layer of water instead of the road surface. This makes braking difficult and reduces your ability of driving.

Guarantee Your Vision 

Rain limits driver vision  (photo source: Shutterstock)

In the law of many countries, driving in the rain requires headlights in order to provide vision for yourself and other drivers. No one wants to be penalized and no police wants to go out in the rain to penalize you for that reason. So for your own safety, turn on those headlights !

Give Space To Others

Give space to other drivers

Chasing the front car’s tail is a TERRIBLE idea. Not only it is risky but it also makes other drivers nervous and panic. A tip to avoid risk while driving is to keep a distance about 3 times normally to stop a car in rainy day. Give other vehicles more time and space to react to traffic is recommended, especially in heavy rain.

SEE MORE:

>> 10 Simple Tips To Become A Driving Master

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See this video to know How to Drive Safely In The Rain.

Observe And Analyze

Most drivers control their cars by instincts and habits, not by their thoughts. However, when it is raining cats and dogs, the conditions are less than ideal and it requires drivers to focus on their surroundings and stay alert every moment.

Turn Off Cruise Control

Turn off cruise control before driving in the rain (photo source: BMW Coding f46)

Cruise control is without a doubt a wonderful invention in every situation, expect raining. One of the most important things to control your car from hydroplaning is slowing down, but if you are in cruise control, your vehicle will go faster. Ironically, cruise control may actually cause drivers to lose control.

Be Aware Of The Flow

Be careful of the puddle in rainy weather (photo source: 5newsonline)

A mistake that many drivers make is to underestimate the pond of water created in rainy day. Even the large size cars can be moved by water flow, and if you are have no other choice but to go through the water, be aware 2 factors:

The depth: You might know the road very well, but if you have no idea how deep the water is, the best solution is to find other way.

The power: The force of water flow can sometimes sweep away the biggest car, so it is wisely to avoid large puddles if possible.

Car Examination

A quick check before driving is essential (photo source: tirereview)

If you must go out while raining, give your vehicle a quick check to make sure your trip is safe.  Examine the tires tread, windshields and headlights are necessary. Drivers should also consider to bring food, water and equipment in case of emergency.

 

Matsumoto Naoki is senior car blogger at Car From Japan. Having background in mechanical engineering, he has a unique perspective on a lot of new car innovations. Prior to Car From Japan, Matsumoto was Mechanical Design Engineer at Yajima Plant, Subaru Corporation. His articles provide detailed DIY instructions and how-tos to help you get your new car on the road. If you want to save money and feel more confident when working on your cars, you should not ignore Matsumoto’s sharing posts. He presents driving tips and tricks for everyone through easy-following steps and mechanically but friendly writing.

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