Driving in the rain (whether it is a heavy downpour or just drizzles) as well as wet road conditions is one of the most challenging situations any driver can experience during a road trip. Rain and associated conditions (wet roads, floods, and others) directly or indirectly lead to higher accident rates. Regardless of what part of the country (rural or Cities) you are driving in, it is important to exercise caution when driving in the rain given the challenges such as reduced visibility that come with it. After all, is said and done, we bring you the important tips for driving in the rain and they include;
Wait until the rain stops, if possible
For safety purposes or if you don’t feel comfortable driving in the rain, it is better to re-schedule the road trip or better still walk if it is possible until the weather gets better. It is better safe than sorry especially if the rain is heavy or road conditions are wet.
Slow down if you must drive
Slowing down is not just about sticking to the standard speed limit but going slower than the normal speed limit. It is a known fact that rains and wet road conditions are very risky and dangerous because the Car’s reaction time is much slower when it is raining. Just keep in mind that reduced speed is of vital importance in rainy conditions.
Make use of your functional windshield wipers
Using windshield wipers while driving in rain seems like common sense but this is a reminder to drivers to always remember this and always make sure that the windshield wiper speed is actually well adjusted to clear all moisture (from simple drizzles or heavy downpours) from your front windscreen.
Heavy braking must be avoided
This still emphasizes the point of slowing down when taking your foot off the accelerator at least earlier than you always do before you finally slow down or a brake. At this point, cruise control should be avoided to let your attention be on both the gas while the brakes are in motion.
Thoroughly check your Car equipment prior to encountering rainy weather
Before you ever decide to encounter rainy weather, it is recommended to first make sure that your car equipment is working properly. The important aspects to check are windshield wipers, headlights, and tail lights in addition to Car tires (by balding to leave minimal or no tread) to reduce traction on wet road conditions.
Keep headlights turned on
Another important rainy driving tip is always keeping your headlights on, even though it is raining during the day, just misting, drizzling, and heavy downpours. This is important to increase your visibility and also make it possible to other drivers to see you while on the road.
Properly ventilate your vehicle
Rains come along with increased levels of humidity, hence making fogginess of car windows when you are driving in the rain. The advantage is ventilating is that majority of cars used by Car Rental Companies have special ventilation systems with s function of reducing fog on the interior of car windows. Therefore for your safety and comfort, it is advisable to pull over if your visibility is affected then switch on both front and back heaters in addition to making sure air conditioning is turned on.
Maintain a reasonable distance between cars
It is also important to maintain a reasonable distance between your Car and the once/s in front of you. Braking the car becomes more difficult when the road conditions are wet and therefore it is recommended to keep a good distance between your car and the ones in front of you, as a precaution in case you decide to suddenly stop.
Avoid driving in standing water or flooded places
Cases of hydroplaning (when car tires start skidding across the surface of the road) are common when driving through standing water and flooded places. Therefore to avoid this, it is recommended to avoid such waters and instead opt for other lanes or safely steer around such places.
