Tips for Driving In Rain

Now that the government have predicted heavy rain fall for this season, serious measures are also been taken by them to reduces the effect of the rain on the populace, by advising on necessary precaution that should be taken by them to prevent heavy flooding and also carrying out massive works on our drainage systems. With all this good works going on they have left out they have left out a very important segment of the populace

which are the motorist  

 Since you can’t stop rain from falling and you have to leave your house to fend for your daily bread there is no way you won’t encounter bad weather especially this season, so extra precaution is necessary when you are driving during this raining season because driving in the rain can be a scary thing and in the night, it is even worse. It is difficult to see out of the window and the other car's lights seem to make it worse. Especially when you begin to hydroplane!

 Here are some tips to avoid getting into an accident while it's raining. 

 1. Keep both hands on the steering wheel at all times! Keep all distractions, such as cell phones or even the radio, off and away from you.

 2. Turn on your headlights when it is raining, even in broad daylight. 

3. Turn on the defroster if the windshield begins to fog. In hot, muggy weather, air conditioned air (which cannot contain as much moisture) will usually clear the inside of the windshield faster than non air conditioned. Windshield Water repellent products are very helpful during heavy rain as they force the water to bead and shed off the glass.

 4. Keep a minimum of a good five car length from the car in front of you. You never know what other drivers are going to do or what could happen to you.

 5. Drive at or below the speed limit to the extent that you are comfortable with, and can see far enough in front of you to appropriately make driving decisions.

 6. Be aware that the maximum speed at which you can drive is DIRECTLY related to your tires. Be sure to know what their condition is in. Radial tires have better traction than the old bias ply polyester tires, but even they lose their ability to grip wet pavement and channel water out as the tread wears out.

 7. Be aware of hydroplaning. This is where your vehicle travels on top of the water and has NO or very little contact with the ground. Your traction is reduced significantly. To safely get out of a hydroplaning situation let off the gas and steer straight or slightly in the direction you must go. Do not make sudden motions and remain calm.

 8. Avoid flooded roads. Never drive through standing or flowing water in a road way unless you have no choice or you are able to follow someone else to judge the depth of the water. Flooding the engine of your car can cause the engine to stall, and deep water can actually float your car and take it off the roadway.

 9. Be aware that brakes can be affected by water. Wet drum type brakes are especially prone to decreased stopping power after driving through deep water.

 10. Watch for splashing from potholes and pools of water that accumulate at clogged storm drain pipes and low areas of the pavem