Driving in the rain can be challenging, even for the most experienced drivers in Wisconsin weather. This is especially true if we are in the middle of a trental downpour. We have snow, but we also get a lot of rain...and a lot can happen on the road in the rain. Wet roads can reduce traction, affect your visibility, and you can hydroplane, which can be pretty scary. Whether you are a new driver or have some experience behind the wheel, we can help!
Driving in the rain can be dangerous for a few different reasons, including reduced visibility, reduced traction, longer braking distances, aqua and hydro plaining, flooding, wind, and weather predictability, just to name a few. Rain can also significantly decrease your visibility on the road. On top of all of that, wet roads can also cause glare from headlights and streetlights, also making it harder to see.
Rainwater can mix with oil, dirt, and some other things on the road and can create a slippery surface. This reduces grip on the road and can lead to skidding and/or hydroplaning. Hydroplaning can happen when a layer of water builds up between the tires and the road surface, in turn causing a loss of traction and the potential to skid out of control.
Rain conditions can lead to reduced visibility and slippery roads, increasing the possibility of an accident. Driving in the rain safely is helpful and can prevent accidents. We have some ideas on how to help you drive safer in wet conditions.
Being able to see properly is so important to driving safely at any time, especially when visibility is not the best because of the rain. Clean the inside and outside of the windows to reduce the gunk that may make it harder to see. If your windows fog up, turn on the car’s air conditioning and put the vents towards the windows.
The tire tread on your car allows your tires to adhere well to the road. Driving with bald tires and/or little tread can be dangerous. Without the right traction, you can skid, slide, and hydroplane in wet conditions.
Replace your wipers yearly to prevent them from cracking, breaking, not working, or not sealing properly.
During nasty weather, you should always adjust your speed accordingly. Wet roads reduce traction so slowing down reduces the risks of skidding and gives you more time to react to emergencies. Wet roads can reduce your traction by about a third, so you should also reduce your speed by a third.
When it starts to rain, turn on your headlights immediately, regardless of the time of day. In some states, driving without headlights is illegal when it’s raining or bad weather. Your headlights will make it easier for other drivers to see your car and rain means cloudy skies with less light, so turning your lights on will help you see the road better and help other people also see you better.
Slamming on the brakes can cause you to slide forward, and you won’t be able to control your car. Hitting the brakes too hard can force water into your brakes, making them less effective.
Cruise control is another factor that can lead to hydroplaning. The car’s weight shifts when you ease on or off the accelerator. This helps the tires maintain traction with the road. With cruise control, the car’s speed is constant and there is no weight shift, so your car can lose traction.
Driving through deep or moving water can be dangerous for many reasons like possibly getting stuck, stalling out, damaging your car and/or the electric, as well as the possibility of being swept away. Don’t proceed through deep water if it comes higher than the bottom of your door.
Driving in the rain requires extra attention and precaution. Maintaining a safe speed, increasing the distance between yourself and the car in front of you, and using the right tires are essential. Regular vehicle maintenance like replacing wipers and checking your brakes can help your safety in the rain.
Stay safe on the road! And as always, stop into Schmit Bros today for any and all of your car maintenance needs! If you are in need of service for the weather right now, whether it be extreme heat, or a downpour, be sure to stop in and we can check out your car to make sure it’s safe! We have a multipoint safety inspection with all services to make sure your car is as safe as possible. Give us a call at 262-284-8844 and we will help your car with any and all service needs!