Anyone driving in a sudden rain storm knows the drill - you start to see rain droplets on the windshield. Before you know it, you're fighting for control of the steering wheel as your car hydroplanes across the road.
There's no way to anticipate every possible driving condition, yet knowing a few basic pointers can aid your safety during unexpected downpours. So if you're ever caught in a rain storm while driving, remember these tips!
1. Avoid sudden braking or acceleration:
If you need to slow down, gradually take your foot off the gas pedal and let your car's natural inertia do the work. Similarly, gently press the gas pedal rather than flooring it if you need to speed up to be safe while driving in a sudden rain storm.
2. Keep driving in the tracks of the car ahead:
Driving on the track of cars in front of you will help you avoid any potential puddles of water that could cause your car to hydroplane. It will also help you see where the road is slipperiest to avoid those areas.
3. Keep a safe following distance:
Always maintain a safe space behind the vehicle in front of you. Still, it's especially important in wet weather. Sudden braking can cause hydroplaning, so give yourself plenty of space to stop.
4. Use your low beams:
Your low beams will help you see better in the rain and prevent you from dazzling other drivers. They should be used any time visibility is reduced. If you use bright lights in a storm, you may end up temporarily blinding other drivers, which could cause an accident.
5. Drive Slow, No Sudden Turns:
Speeding is never a fine idea, but it's especially scary in wet weather. When the roads are slick, it's harder to maintain control of your car. Slow down and take turns slowly, so you don't lose control.
6. Don’t use cruise control:
In wet weather, it's best not to use your cruise control. Sudden speed changes can cause hydroplaning, so it's best to keep full control of your car at all times. Cruise control can also make it harder to slow down if you need to brake suddenly.
7. Maintain a steady speed:
Driving too fast or too sluggish can both be risky in wet weather. Driving too fast makes it harder to stop if you need to brake suddenly, and driving too slow can make it challenging to retain control of your car.
8. Don’t drive through standing water:
It's never a smart idea to drive through standing water, as you never know how deep it is. If the water is deeper than a few inches, it could cause your car to stall or even flood.
9. Be cautious of large puddles:
Large puddles can hide potholes, damage your tires or even cause you to lose control of your car. If you must drive through an enormous puddle, drive cautiously and be prepared for the presence of a pothole.
As the rain begins rushing down and the roads become slick, it's important to remember how to stay safe while driving. Following a few simple tips for hydroplaning prevention, you can ensure that you can be safe while driving in a sudden rain storm.
Are you looking for a car dealership near Conyers, GA area and need help getting your car ready for wet weather? Visit Honda South, serving Conyers, GA.
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