For the majority of drivers, traveling in heavy rainy conditions can be something of a challenge. Vision is impaired, roads are slick, and it becomes instantly more difficult to predict what surprises you may encounter.
Plainfield, Indianapolis, Fishers, and Bloomington drivers looking for a bit more peace of mind have come to the right place. Check out the best tips for driving in the rain that Andy Mohr Collision Center has to offer!
1. Slow down.
This tip probably seems like a no-brainer, but it’s one we don’t want to dismiss if we’re in a hurry and have somewhere important to be. Truly, though, there’s few things more important than just slowing down when it’s raining out.
2. Don’t tailgate.
Be sure to maintain an appropriate following distance in inclement weather. In the event that you’d need to hit the brakes suddenly, you need extra room to compensate for any slipping tires.
So, what constitutes an appropriate following distance? A good rule of thumb is one car length for every 10 MPH, which should give you enough room to come to a complete stop if need be.
3. Be aware of hydroplaning.
One of the biggest dangers of driving in the rain is hydroplaning. This is when there’s a layer of water on the road and your tires lose traction, gliding through uncontrollably.
Some people may think water needs to be deep for your car to hydroplane, but that’s not true at all. When you’re driving over 35 MPH, 1/12th of an inch is enough to cause you to hydroplane.
If this happens to you, the most important thing to remember is to lay off the brakes. This will cause you to lose control further. Instead, take your foot off the accelerator, keep those hands planted on the wheel, and maintain control as best as you can.
4. Always use your lights.
Equally as important (and simple) as slowing down is using the appropriate lights. If it’s raining, turn those headlights on right away. If at any time you need to slow to a crawl, turn your hazard lights on to alert the driver behind you.
5. Turn off cruise control.
Cruise control is a wonderfully convenient feature, especially when you’re driving on the highway. Unfortunately, maintaining a consistent cruising speed just isn’t viable in unpredictable weather. It’s best to turn the feature off and moderate acceleration yourself.
6. Turn down the radio.
Hyper-focus is of the utmost importance when driving in the rain. Little distractions, such as music, can really draw your mind away from where it needs to be.
When the rain starts falling hard, it’s a good idea to turn down the radio and focus solely on the road ahead.
Contact Our Team for More Information
Knowing how to safely drive in the rain can be a huge asset for Plainfield, Indianapolis, Fishers, and Bloomington drivers.
If you’d like a few more tips, feel free to speak to our team. Contact Andy Mohr Collision Center today for more information!
