26 Tips for Safe Driving in the Rain

by Susan Evans

It’s raining tips for driving in the rain…..

Before Leaving

  1. If at all possible, avoid driving until conditions improve.
  2. Consider alternate transportation options. Keep bus, train, and subway schedules for your routes at home and at work, in case you can’t drive.
  3. Listen to your radio for weather and traffic information.
  4. Check your Car Emergency Kit (download our list) and replace missing items.
  5. Make sure your spare tire is in good condition and properly inflated; carry a jack and other tire-changing tools with you.
  6. Make sure your vehicle is in good operating condition, particularly the tires and windshield wipers.
  7. Allow more travel time. If you’re already running late, call ahead. Never try to make up time on the road,
  8. Tell a Friend: Always let someone know your departure time, expected arrival time, and route. Consider an alternate route if your normal route has roads that collect water.

While Driving

  1. Safe distance: Add one car length between you and the car in front of you for every 10 mph you’re driving. Driving 70 mph? Yep, that’s seven car lengths.
  2. Monitor weather conditions and seek shelter immediately if the storm seems severe. Listen to the radio for traffic and weather reports.
  3. While seemingly obvious – drive carefully and defensively. Water on the road can severely change your car’s responsiveness and reaction time.
  4. Leave extra space between your car and the other cars on the road for extra braking time.
  5. Stay in the middle lane if possible to avoid slippery shoulders and ditches. This can also give you added comfort in gauging your surroundings.
  6. Avoid standing water – it could be hiding potholes, unseen hazards, or lead to hydroplaning.
    • Properly treaded tires will help reduce hydroplaning as they “throw” water from under the tire much better than balding treads.
    • If hydroplaning, resist the temptation to immediately brake hard or turn the wheel – there’s a good chance you’ll lose control. Slow the car by easing off the gas pedal and wait until contact is reestablished with the road before attempting to lightly pump your brakes. If ABS (anti-lock), break normally in one steady motion.
  7. After driving through a pool of water, tap on your brake pedal lightly to dry off your brakes (specifically the rotors). Why? Wet brakes do not react as quickly as dry brakes.
  8. Keep an eye out for pedestrians. The combination of dark umbrellas, dark clothing, and a lot of water on your windshield can make for a pedestrian that is very difficult to see.
  9. Pay attention to your gauges, unusual noises, and other sights and sounds coming from your car. If something seems unusual, be sure to have a professional check it out.
  10. Use your best judgment. If you can’t see road signs or cars in front of you, consider pulling over and wait out the heavy rainfall.

Have Time? Prep Your Car

Check the following items:

  1. Battery
    • Recharge or replace weak batteries. If your battery is 4-5 years old, you may want to replace it.
    • Have your whole charging system checked out by a professional.
  2. Brakes
    • Have your brakes checked by your mechanic.
  3. Exhaust System
    • Have the exhaust system fully checked for leaks.
  4. Fluids
    • Check fluid levels, battery posts, voltage regulator, and alternator or generator.
    • Change your oil and oil filter as needed. A good rule of thumb for most cars is every 3,000 miles. Your owner’s manual and dealer can give you specifics to your make/model.
  5. Heating and Cooling System
    • Check your radiator and hoses for cracks and leaks.
    • Make sure the radiator cap, water pump, and thermostat work properly.
    • Anti-freeze should be changed at least every two years. Have it changed now if you didn’t do it last year.
    • Test the functioning of the heater and defroster.
  6. Ignition System
    • Look for and replace damaged or worn-out wires, caps, or plugs.
  7. Lights
    • Make sure all lights are functioning properly.
    • Check if the fuses are working properly.
    • Put in extra fuses in your car to have just in case.
  8. Tires
    • Traction is the key to good movement, turning, and stopping on wet surfaces. The deeper the tread on your tires, the more water can be channeled out from under the tire, and the more traction you’ll have.
    • Check your owner’s manual or door frame for the maximum pressure amount for your tires. Do not go above that pressure point.
    • Make sure to have the same tires on all four wheels. This will keep your car stable.
    • Check your spare tire regularly.

Windshield Wipers and Washer

  • Make sure there is enough windshield washer fluid in the reservoir. Carry an extra jug in the vehicle.
  • Make sure wipers are in good condition (blades that streak should be replaced). Replace your windshield wipers at least once a year.

Photo Credit: Lotus Raphael on Unsplash

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