Road accidents are more common in rainy conditions. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), rain causes 46% of weather-related car accidents. More accidents happen during rainy days because heavy rainfall decreases visibility. When rain hits the road, the surface becomes more slippery and harder to navigate.
Poor visibility and wet pavements affect the way you drive. This is where defensive driving comes in. There are safety precautions you should take during the rainy season. Here are a few tips that will help you gain confidence when driving in the rain:
Check the Tires
When it rains, tires lose traction and start hydroplaning. There should be enough tread depth to let rain escape through the tire’s grooves. Tires with little to no tread pose risk on wet roads. To avoid slipping on the road, check your tires for any signs of damage. They might no longer be in good working condition, which means you need a tire replacement.
Apply Hydrophobic Coating on Your Windshield
It’s hard to see other cars and pedestrians during a heavy downpour. If you’re dealing with this situation, use a hydrophobic coating. Rain-repellent windshield sprays help improve visibility and safety in harsh weather conditions.
All you need to do is spray the product on the windshield and side mirrors. Spread the product using a microfiber towel, and let it dry completely. Rain-repellent products can shed off the water against the glass surfaces. When you have a clear windshield, your vision won’t be blocked by water.
Eliminate Distractions
Whether it’s raining or not, do not take your attention away from driving. But you should be extra focused when it’s raining. Avoid using your mobile phones or talking to people in the car. As a responsible driver, you need to keep your eyes on the road. The more distracted you are, the higher chances of road crashes.
Always Wear Your Seat Belt
Seat belts save lives. If your car begins to skid due to the rain, your seat belt will keep you safe and secure. Being buckled up during a crash will keep in place during an impact. As stated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, seat belts reduce serious crash-related injuries and deaths by 50 percent.
Drive Slow
Navigating a wet, slippery road is very dangerous. Your car’s wheels are less likely to grip the pavement. Therefore, it’s important to take it slow when driving in the rain. Always keep in mind to drive slower and brake sooner. When you drive slowly under the speed limit, it’s easier to control the speed and direction of the vehicle. This also decreases the chances of having a wild and dangerous ride.
Increase Following Distance
Since it takes longer to stop in the rain, you need to increase your following distance. A safe following distance should be maintained between you and the vehicle in front of you. When driving, remember to give yourself at least five seconds of distance. This will give you enough time to stop or respond to a road hazard. When there’s more space between cars, you will feel safer driving on wet pavement.
Stop Driving
No matter how prepared you are, it’s risky to drive when it’s pouring outside. If you don’t feel comfortable driving in the rain, pull over to the side of the road. This will keep you safe and avoid putting other lives at risk. You may stop driving and wait until the weather conditions improve.
Go to an emergency lane or any roadside with ample space. Avoid parking where you might get hit by passing vehicles. After pulling over, turn your hazard lights on or contact a towing service for assistance.
Need Towing During Stormy Weather?
At Allentown Towing Company, we promote safe driving—rain or shine. Many things can go wrong with your vehicle when it’s pouring rain. If you are looking for roadside assistance, we are here to help you out!
Our reliable team offers exceptional towing services and roadside assistance. We can take care of your vehicle breakdowns, lockouts, and other emergencies. Our goal is to respond as quickly as we can. Before you know it, our towing experts are already out to the rescue!
All you have to do is give us a call! We’re ready to tackle any job, no matter how stormy it gets.