According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, there are nearly 1,235,000 automobile accidents each year related to weather. A majority of those accidents happen during rainfall (46%) and when the pavement is wet (70%). Heavy rain is one of the most common adverse weather conditions that drivers face. Wet weather driving can be hazardous, causing skids, hydroplaning, slick roads, and flooded streets. Defensive driving in rainy conditions is necessary.
Here’s 5 Defensive Driving Tips
1. Use windshield wipers.
- Windshield wiper speeds are adjustable to clear moisture during a light mist or in a heavy downpour.
- Several products can be sprayed or wiped onto the glass to defer the collection of rainwater.
- Wipers should be replaced if a scraping noise is heard or streaks are seen.
2. Increase distance between vehicles.
- Wet roads are slick surfaces that require special attention when driving.
- Practice safe driving by an increasing the distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
- The average reaction time for drivers is 3⁄4 of a second. Allow enough time to identify the hazard and plan avoidance.
3. Reduce speed.
- Speed limits are set for ideal weather conditions, not wet and slippery roadways.
- Speeding and over-confidence in adverse conditions can lead to hydroplaning.
4. Brake smoothly.
- Never slam on brakes, especially when driving on wet roads.
- Apply brake pressure slowly, smoothly, and early.
5. Watch Out For Standing Water
- Through standing, water can cause hydroplaning.
- To avoid hydroplaning, drive around locations where water has collected.
6. Exercise extra caution at intersections.
- Slow down well before intersections and cover the brake. Even with good visibility in the best of conditions, intersections are a high-risk area for collisions.
- Anticipate, but never assume another driver\’s actions.
- Drivers may not come to a complete stop, especially in slippery conditions, if they have not been properly trained to drive in adverse conditions.
7. Double-Check Vehicle Equipment
- Ensure vehicle equipment is in working order before encountering rainy weather.
- Check headlights, taillights, and windshield wipers to confirm they will work efficiently when needed.
8. Let Off The Gas When Hydroplaning
- Car accidents in the rain are common as drivers lose control.
- If your car hydroplanes, calmly take your foot off the accelerator and steer in the direction that the front of your car should go.
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