Driving in the rain can be a recipe for disaster. The roads are slippery, and you could end up causing an accident if caught without proper preparation. Brownsville Toyota has some tips for avoiding getting into trouble when driving through standing water or other wet conditions.
1. Slow Down
Rain causes vehicles to stop with delay, so drivers have less control over their vehicles. It’s not worth risking your safety by speeding in the rain.
According to a study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 22{e4a552875846a344765516d5062c1e2fe5879960ce166f7d572f85e1d47441f2} of all vehicle crashes in the United States are weather-related. Of those weather-related crashes, 46{e4a552875846a344765516d5062c1e2fe5879960ce166f7d572f85e1d47441f2} happen during rainfall.
So, it is in your best interest to slow down when the roads are wet. Not only will it help you avoid an accident, but it will also give you more time to react if something does happen.
2. Turn on Headlights and Windshield Wipers
Heavy rain significantly affects visibility. Hence, your response time to potential hazards will be lower. Better turn on your headlights to warn other drivers what’s coming towards them! Also, be more vigilant when passing or merging into traffic, taking additional caution. Use low-beam headlights to improve visibility, but don’t use high beams because they will reflect off the water on the road and further impair your vision.
3. Regain Control Slowly If You Hydroplane
Hydroplaning can be a dangerous condition, but it’s easily reversible if you take the proper steps. First off all-, don’t panic! Take your foot off of gas and slowly decrease speed until control has been reclaimed. Now before accelerating back up to normal cruising range without overdoing things or losing balance. Try to maintain steady state traction on both wheels equally through corners etc., then pull safely aside at the next exit to find a safe parking space.
4. Beware of Slick Roads and Bridges
Rain makes roads and bridges slick. Reduce the car’s speed and increase your following distance to give yourself more time to react if someone should brake suddenly in front of you. Pay close attention to traffic patterns and be prepared for other drivers who may not be as cautious as you are.
5. Avoid Driving Through Large Puddles Of Water
You never know how deep a puddle of water is, and you don’t want to risk driving through it and possibly damaging your car. If the water is too deep to avoid, slow down as much as possible before going through it. It will help minimize damage to your vehicle and keep you from hydroplaning.
Ending Note
Make sure you have a reliable car service or repair shop on speed dial to avoid accidents or problems while driving in wet conditions. At Brownsville Toyota, serving Brownsville, TX, we want to ensure our drivers are safe and sound even under wet weather. So please browse our inventory or schedule service for your car today!
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