If you are like most drivers, you have noticed people drive a bit erratically when the skies open up. Complicating the challenge of driving in the rain is the fact that the moisture causes oils trapped within the road to move up onto the surface, making the conditions even slicker. However, defensive drivers who proactively alter their driving strategy in accordance with the onslaught of rain will avoid accidents and arrive safely at their destination. Here’s how to do it.
Steer in a Strategic Manner
There is no reason to drive at or beyond the posted speed limit amidst a downpour. Reduce your speed and you will decrease the chances of hydroplaning. However, if your vehicle ends up hydroplaning, turn the steering wheel in the direction you would like to drive toward. Continue to steer out of the dangerous hydroplaning until your vehicle is straightened out. Your first attempt to steer out of the slide might not work so keep at it and you will eventually return to the straight and narrow.
Do not Fall Into the Trap of Cruise Control
Cruise control has its perks yet it also has the potential to make the road more dangerous than it should be, especially when it is raining. You will put your vehicle, yourself and your passengers in harm’s way if you end up hydroplaning when cruise control is on. Such a scenario will actually increase your vehicle’s rate of speed, making the situation that much more dangerous in all regards.
Reduce Your Speed
As mentioned above, there is no reason to drive at or above the posted speed limit when the rain is falling. Do not drive faster than the conditions warrant. There is no shame in driving 10 miles per hour less than the speed limit if it keeps you and your vehicle out of harm’s way. Though reducing your speed will extend your driving time, it is better to make it safely to your destination rather than endure a potentially painful and costly accident. Do the smart thing by leaving 10 minutes early and drive at a safe rate of speed. However, if you get into an accident, our autobody repair shop will be here to get your vehicle back to its normal condition as quickly as possible.
Use Your Headlights, not Your Brights
Plenty of drivers make the mistake of forgetting to turn on their headlights when the rain falls. Some drivers go to the opposite extreme and immediately turn on their brights. The better approach is the happy medium of turning on your headlights to maximize visibility during the downpour. Do not turn on your brights unless you are on the backroads and no vehicles are ahead of you. Furthermore, there is even a chance your brights will reflect off the water-soaked road, bouncing right back up to your eyes, creating an even more dangerous situation resulting from temporary blindness.
Certified Collision Center has Your Autobody Repair Needs Covered
If you end up in an accident, we’ve got you covered. Certified Collision Center will repair your vehicle so you can get back on the road as soon as possible. Give us a call at (209) 836-4893 or fill out our convenient online contact form to schedule an appointment.