Driving in the Rain: Essential Tips for Safe Navigation
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Driving in the rain is risky. Over 75% of weather-related crashes happen on wet pavement, and 47% of those accidents occur during rainfall. You might think that rainy weather must be pretty severe to cause collisions, but that's not the case. Even a light mist on the right patch of pavement can create a dangerous road condition.
Experience can help you avoid risky driving habits in the rain. Still, safety is more about knowledge and commitment to deliberate and controlled actions than years behind the wheel. In the rain, it is best to act with tremendous caution.
Understanding Wet Weather Conditions
A wet road reduces traction, meaning your tires don't have as much grip as they do in dry conditions.
The first 10 minutes of rain are the most dangerous. An initial misting or downpour of rain mixes with excess dirt, oil, and grime on the surface of roadways and creates a slick top layer. During this initial storm phase, your vehicle is at its greatest risk of hydroplaning — where tires lose contact with the road, gliding on top of the standing water and grime mixture.
However, driving in rain is dangerous even beyond the first 10 minutes of a storm. The wet condition can change the feel and maneuverability of your vehicle. For example, brakes may not stop as quickly as you're used to and the gas pedal may not seem as reliable because of low traction. Take proper safety precautions and adjust your driving style and, in some instances, your car.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Rainy Conditions
A well-maintained vehicle offers more control and visibility when the weather is unpredictable.
Tires are your contact with the road. A quality tire that's in good condition with deep treads allows for better traction than a tire with worn treads and too many miles. Tires should have a minimum tread depth of 4/32 inch for driving in the rain. An ideal depth is 6/32 inch or more.
When expecting wet weather, check your lights (headlights, brake lights, taillights, and turn signals). Rain can cause poor visibility. The last thing you want to happen is a driver slamming into your backend because your tail lights were out.
Windshield wipers help improve visibility in wet weather. Unfortunately, people often forget to replace them as frequently as they should. A typical windshield wiper blade is good for about 12 months, but several factors can affect that projection, such as cold weather, usage, and blade quality. So, before the rainy season this year, check your wipers.
Finally, drivers should take two special precautions: install an emergency road safety kit and purchase auto insurance with adequate coverage. A proper safety kit includes road flares or reflective triangles, jumper cables, first aid items, and other crucial items. Install the kit in your trunk or vehicle bed.
Auto insurance is usually required by law, but state mandatory minimums might only cover others' property and injuries. Full coverage provides personal injury and personal property protections.
Adjusting to Rainy Weather Driving Techniques
While rain is a potentially hazardous weather condition, it's possible to travel safely and comfortably from point A to point B. The key to safe driving in the rain is to adjust your driving technique. For example, many people use cruise control when driving on the expressway, but using it in the rain is dangerous. The maintained speed from cruise control can increase your odds of hydroplaning. It can also hinder your ability to make quick adjustments to road conditions.
The primary safety precaution for wet weather driving is to adjust how you react on the road. Give yourself more control and options by maintaining a safe distance and limiting dependence on convenience tools.
Safety Tips for Driving in Rain
Driving in the rain safety tips include checking windshield wipers, avoiding cruise control, and maintaining distance. Still, that is only a partial list. There are at least two other things you must do.
1. Reducing Speed and Avoiding Sudden Maneuvers
Slowing down is the safest thing to do when driving during a rainstorm. The set speed limit is for ideal conditions. Only drive at a speed you are comfortable with. If roads are too congested or other drivers are aggressive, put your hazards on and pull over to the side or into a parking lot until the roads or weather clear.
Wet conditions can also lead to diminished or unexpected reactions. Sudden actions like sharp turns or hard braking won't happen smoothly. It's best to brake earlier and leave more room between vehicles to reduce risks.
2. Using Headlights Appropriately
Headlights help others see your vehicle on the road in suboptimal conditions. Most modern vehicles have automatic features that turn on your headlights in specific situations like low visibility. If your car doesn't have such a feature, turn on your lights but not your high beams. High beams can distract or blind other drivers.
Get Comprehensive Coverage for Rainy Days
Poor weather increases the chances of collisions and injuries. That's why you need comprehensive car insurance to protect you and your property. Check out EverQuote to compare multiple insurance companies and policies and find the one that's right for you.