Driving in perfect weather can be dangerous enough but when mother nature isn’t so calm it can become increasingly more risky. Depending on the roadway, often wet weather is one of the more deadly causes for accidents occurring throughout the United States. Appropriate driving considerations should be taken into account to keep not only yourself but others traveling along the roadways safe
One of the more obvious methods for minimizing the risk of an accident during wet weather is simply planning. If a trip can be avoided or postponed then waiting until the roadways are clear is the best method for reducing the inherent risk of driving in the rain. Watching weather patterns, planning ahead, and knowing if/when a storm is expected can be extremely beneficial
Further, depending on the reasoning behind your trip or certain deadlines and appointments electing to pull over and wait for the weather to pass is also a smart option. Make sure you are far enough removed from the roadway for those travelers continuing and turn on your hazard lights for increased visibility. Take into consideration that arriving late is better than not arriving at all
Following are some appropriate considerations to make if you are forced to drive in wet conditions
TIRES
Before even beginning a trip, tire tread wear should be something of which the driver investigates. If your vehicle’s tires are older or have logged numerous miles they are going to increasingly wear and reduce the amount of contact with the roadway
In wet conditions, slick tires do not bode well. If your car isn’t prepared for a storm beginning with appropriate tires, then postponing travel or stopping should be high on a driver’s priority list
LIGHTS
Some vehicles now come equipped with daytime running lights and if not, once the rain begins headlights should be engaged. With rain often comes decreased visibility and ensuring your automobile can be seen by other motorists is extremely important
Both headlights and tail lights, including turn signals should all be functional and active when driving in wet conditions
AVOID CRUISE CONTROL
According to the American Automobile Association drivers should avoid the use of cruise control while operating on wet,slick surfaces. “To prevent loss of traction, the driver may need to reduce the car’s speed by lifting off the accelerator, which cannot be accomplished when cruise control is engaged.”
Motorists should rely on their own capabilities to judge appropriate acceleration and deceleration techniques when roadways are not ideal.
SLOW DOWN
Almost as obvious as simply waiting until it clears to travel, drivers should decrease their speed when traveling on adverse roadways. Remember speed limit signs are technically a recommendation based on a variety of factors and are put in place for your safety. These limits are posted under ideal driving circumstances with rain and storms not taken into consideration
When traveling during a severe weather event or simply a passing shower, drivers should reduce their speed often considerably below the speed limit.
The experts at Mancinelli’s Auto Repair Center can answer any questions regarding a vehicle’s tire wear level while giving your car a full inspection to make sure it’s wet weather compatible. Wipers, lights, and brakes, in addition to tires, can be checked as each customer will receive a full review of their car, truck, or SUV. A full inspection of your automobile can also be completed in a timely manner to keep your vehicle running both effectively and efficiently. Request an appointment online or call today.