Driving in heavy rain and storms can be a nerve-wracking experience, with reduced visibility, slick roads, and increased stopping distances creating dangerous conditions. However, with the right knowledge and precautions, you can navigate through the storm safely. This guide covers essential tips to help you stay safe on the road when faced with heavy rain and storms.
1. Prepare Your Vehicle Before the Rainy Season
Before the storm hits, ensuring your car is in top condition is crucial. Here’s what you need to do:
Check Your Tires
- Ensure proper tread depth. Tires with worn-out treads lose grip on wet roads, increasing the risk of hydroplaning.
- Maintain proper tire pressure. Under-inflated or over-inflated tires can impact traction.
Inspect Windshield Wipers and Fluid
- Replace old or ineffective wiper blades to ensure a clear windshield.
- Keep your windshield washer fluid full to clear dirt and debris during heavy rain.
Test Your Lights
- Make sure headlights, taillights, and brake lights are functional to improve visibility for yourself and others.
- Use fog lights if available for additional clarity in extreme conditions.
Check Your Brakes
- Worn-out brakes can significantly affect stopping distances in wet conditions.
- If you notice squeaking, grinding, or reduced responsiveness, get your brakes inspected.
Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Car
- Include essentials such as a flashlight, extra batteries, a first aid kit, reflective triangles, a rain poncho, and a phone charger.
- Carry non-perishable snacks and bottled water in case of delays.
2. Adjust Your Driving Habits in Heavy Rain
Once you’re on the road in a storm, adapting your driving style is key to staying safe.
Slow Down
- Speeding on wet roads increases the risk of hydroplaning.
- Reduce your speed to match road conditions, even if it means driving below the posted speed limit.
Increase Following Distance
- Wet roads reduce tire traction, increasing stopping distance.
- Maintain at least a five-second gap between you and the car in front.
Use Your Headlights
- Turn on your headlights to improve visibility, even during the daytime.
- Avoid using high beams, as they can reflect off rain and decrease visibility.
Avoid Sudden Movements
- Gradual acceleration and deceleration help maintain control.
- Avoid abrupt braking or steering, which can lead to skidding.
Watch for Puddles and Flooded Areas
- Standing water can cause hydroplaning.
- Drive around deep puddles when possible; otherwise, proceed slowly.
- If water is deeper than the bottom of your car’s doors, turn around and seek an alternate route.
3. Handling Hydroplaning and Skidding
Hydroplaning occurs when water builds up between your tires and the road, leading to loss of traction. Here’s what to do:
If You Hydroplane:
- Take your foot off the accelerator immediately.
- Avoid sudden braking or turning the steering wheel sharply.
- Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel and steer gently in the direction you want to go.
If Your Car Skids:
- Stay calm and do not overcorrect the steering.
- If your rear wheels skid, turn your steering wheel in the direction the rear is sliding.
- Do not slam on the brakes—this can worsen the skid.
4. Dealing with Low Visibility
Heavy rain can significantly reduce visibility. Here’s how to handle it:
Use the Right Lights
- Keep headlights on low beam to avoid glare from rain.
- Use fog lights if visibility is severely reduced.
Turn on Your Defroster
- Fog can form inside your windshield due to temperature differences.
- Use your car’s defrost setting to keep the windshield clear.
Follow Road Markings
- Lane markings can be difficult to see, so focus on road signs and reflective markers.
5. Avoiding Flooded Roads and Flash Floods
Flooded roads are a serious hazard during storms. Here’s how to navigate them safely:
Never Drive Through Moving Water
- Even six inches of moving water can knock you off balance.
- Two feet of moving water can sweep away most vehicles, including SUVs and trucks.
Estimate Water Depth
- If water reaches the bottom of your car’s doors, do not proceed.
- If unsure of depth, turn around and take an alternate route.
If You Get Stuck in Floodwater:
- Abandon your car and move to higher ground if water rises inside.
- Call for emergency assistance if needed.
6. Using Technology to Stay Safe
Take advantage of modern technology to improve safety during heavy rain and storms:
Use Weather Apps
- Stay updated on real-time weather conditions and road closures.
- Set up weather alerts for storm warnings.
Turn On GPS and Traffic Alerts
- Navigation apps can reroute you to avoid hazardous areas and heavy congestion.
Activate Your Vehicle’s Safety Features
- Many modern vehicles have traction control and stability assist systems that improve handling in wet conditions.
- If your car has rain-sensing wipers, make sure they’re activated.
7. Knowing When to Stop Driving
Sometimes, the safest option is to stop driving and wait for conditions to improve.
If Visibility is Critically Low:
- Pull over to a safe location away from traffic.
- Turn on hazard lights and wait until visibility improves.
If Roads Are Too Slippery to Control Your Vehicle:
- Find a safe place to park, preferably a rest stop or parking lot.
- Stay inside your vehicle and monitor weather updates.
If There’s a Tornado Warning:
- Do not try to outrun a tornado in your car.
- Find sturdy shelter or a low-lying area away from trees and power lines.
- Lie flat on the ground and cover your head with your hands if you cannot find shelter.
Driving in heavy rain and storms requires patience, preparation, and careful decision-making. By maintaining your vehicle, adjusting your driving habits, and staying informed about weather conditions, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with wet-weather driving. If conditions become too dangerous, don’t hesitate to pull over and wait it out. Your safety—and the safety of those around you—is always the top priority. Stay cautious, stay aware, and drive safely.
