Driving in rainy weather is dangerous and requires specific techniques. More accidents occur during bad weather than only sunny days. This is obvious, but what isn’t obvious to most drivers is the importance of learning specific tricks and techniques for driving in the rain. The same emergency braking and obstacle avoidance techniques that work on dry roads will not work as well when it is raining.
It is common for drivers to underestimate the distance they need to stop their car in the rain. Improver braking can cause your car to hydroplane. Hydroplaning is when your car basically slides over the wet road because your tires are not able to grip the road. There are even special tires that prevent hydroplaning. Our natural instinct is to hit the brakes hard when we feel the car slide, but this can cause your car to hydroplane even more.
The proper technique is to gently feather your brakes to decrease speed. Slamming on the brakes can cause your car to slide across the highway causing a severe accident. Any type of braking should be gentle when it is wet. It is a good idea to constantly check the condition of your tires because a worn out tire cannot properly grip the road.
Tires that have worn down their tread are more likely to hydroplane. Routinely check your tires and have them rotated by a tire shop. Rotating your tires will insure that they wear evenly, and will prolong the life of your tires. Your brakes are also vital for proper driving in the rain. Disc brakes that have been worn down will take a substantial amount of time before they can stop a car. Add wet road conditions and you have a car that might not be able to slow down in time to avoid an accident. Most accidents are cause by inexperienced drivers.
