How to drive in rain?
Driving in rain, whether a sprinkle or a heavy downpour, is a very difficult task. On the wet roads, the risks of the moving vehicles facing accidents are simply high. So, it is highly advisable to avoid driving in rainy conditions as far as possible. But, if one cannot do so, s/he should be aware of some important tips for better and safer drive. Such tips are as follows:
Driving a clean, well-maintained car
When the weather is bad, visibility becomes naturally poor. So, it is crucial to ensure that your four-wheeler itself does not further hamper your sight. For this, follow some simple yet effective practices. They are cleaning the outsides and insides of windshields and windows and checking the windshield wiper blades for wear at least every month. Similarly, other such practices include checking the quantity of the washer fluid once a week and inspecting the headlights, taillights, turn signals and tire treads every day before driving the vehicle.
Turning on the headlights
Doing this helps increase the visibility of not only the driver but also other users of the roads. As such, the possibility of accidents can be effectively averted. However, according to experts, one should not flip on the brights as it might reflect off wet surfaces and irritates his/her eyes. They also advise that turning on the vehicle’s headlights is a good idea not in the rain but also in the misty environment.
Limiting the speed
One should strictly comply with the posted speed limit and drive slower in the wet weather. This is because in such a condition, the vehicle is technically unable to react as prompt as in the dry weather. The driver shall also stay away from using cruise control on wet roads. Otherwise, the automatic acceleration can cause the vehicle lose control with the tires regaining traction.
Maintaining a Safe following distance
Maintaining a safe following distance between vehicles Keeping at least five seconds of following distance between the vehicles in rainy moments is simply mandatory. This helps one to keep the vehicular pace under control while applying brakes to stop.
Resisting from heavy braking
If the vehicle on wet roads has to be slowed down/stopped, one needs to take the foot off the accelerator earlier than on dry ones. This prevents the brakes from being locked and the car from sliding.
Avoid going into too deep
The covering of the road markings by water means it is too deep to drive on. Even though a new, modern vehicle’ door is designed to keep water out, it makes the car buoyant. This means it could begin to float if the water gets too deep leaving one stranded. At the same time, any other larger vehicle could push some of that water underneath the car, thus causing the engine to stall.
Stop if it is too heavy
Don't drive if it starts heavy raining. If you can't see 5 secs ahead it would be better to stop driving and wait until the rain gets lighter.