Tips for safer driving when it’s raining
Driving during the night can be a scary thing especially in stormy conditions. When the road is wet it presents a lot of challenges. First, the water on the road makes the car tire lose traction. Second, the downpour of rainwater decreases road visibility. Therefore, road signs, pedestrians, other automobiles and the road itself are harder to see.
These factors are beyond control and dealing with these elements is a tough challenge. Even so, many precautions can still be applied in order to diminish the threats of road peril. Here are some simple tips how to head out of danger and how to stay safe when it’s raining hard.
1. Slow down. – In rainy conditions drive slow and maintain appropriate distance. Rainwater on asphalt creates a foamy residue made from dirt and grease that reduces tire traction. Hence, motorists take longer time to adjust speed when the road is wet. As a safety precaution, maintain ample room between you and the car in front of you to avoid collisions.
2. Drive slowly. – Heavy downpour will hinder your ability to see pedestrians, incoming vehicles, animals and other possible hazards. Thankfully, there are some easy ways how to improve road visibility when it’s raining. Mary Anderson Invented wiper blades in 1903 to wash away dirt, rain, snow and other potential debris from the windshield. At present, motorist use it to keep the road visible under all weather conditions.
3. Keep your vehicles car bulbs on. – It’s hard to achieve good vision when it raining much more when it happens in the evening. Fortunately, appropriate headlight bulbs help drivers see better on foggy or rainy days. That’s why, many automobiles today use car LED (Light Emitting Diodes) bulbs for their front and rear signal lights. As opposed to traditional incandescent bulbs, LED lights last longer, saves energy better, lowers operating costs and helps save the environment.
4. Be particularly careful. – Large flashes of lighting and high winds usually accompany a heavy rain. Therefore, when you need to stop or slow, do not brake or turn suddenly. Stay calm and focused so as not to make the situation worse. Be in control of the vehicle at all times because less traction and moving water on the road can give little resistance to skidding and hydroplaning.
Habitually check the condition of your vehicle. – There are several things to keep in mind to prevent accidents from happening. Drivers need to be aware that tread on tires need to be kept in good condition because it is the most important control device on a car. Likewise, high-quality brakes help the driver regain control of the steering and car acceleration. While, headlamp bulbs give the driver more time to react to road obstacles especially at night and in bad weather.