Tips For Driving Safely When It’s Wet
Driving in the rain and wet road conditions can be the most dangerous driving situation that most drivers will encounter regularly. Road hazards are increased in rainy conditions, whether it’s following a heavy downpour or a sprinkle. Wet roads elevate the chances of road risks and are often associated with increased accident rates.
During heavy rains, roads become slippery, which decreases vehicle traction, visibility distance, as well as manoeuvrability. Driving under such conditions can be challenging even to the most experienced drivers. Below is a list of valuable tips for driving safely when it’s wet.
Slow Down
Slowing down is an obvious precaution that most drivers turn to whenever it starts to rain. Wet roads are extremely dangerous. Oil and grease from vehicles form a layer on the road surface during dry weather, and when the rains fall, this film becomes incredibly slippery. Thus, you should be cautious and defensive when driving on wet roads.
Reduce your speed and increase car lengths between your vehicle and the car in front of you. Most importantly, don’t feel pressure to drive the speed limit posted on the side of the highway because that is the maximum speed for perfect road and weather conditions. You should also avoid using cruise control when driving on wet roads as it increases your chances of hydroplaning.
Stay Alert
Another safety tip for driving in wet weather is to stay focused so you don’t lose control. Be cautious of what’s happening around you when the weather isn’t that favourable. Again, pay great attention to merging lanes and be aware of other road users like cyclists and pedestrians. Be sure to check around your car and in blind spots before making a turn or passing vehicles to eliminate the chances of collisions.
Switch on Lights
Turning on the lights helps other motorists to see you. While most vehicles feature automatic running lights, you may want to switch on the actual headlights when engaging windshield wipers, so your back lights also come on. This helps highlight all the four corners of your car.
Wait for the Weather to Improve
If the reason for driving in the rain isn’t urgent, avoid driving until the weather improves. Still, if you’re not comfortable driving on wet roads, you can postpone the trip altogether. The bottom line is that do not drive in the rain if it’s not absolutely necessary.
Know the Roads
Australian roads are designed to withstand varying weather conditions in different areas of the country. So, stay alert and be cautious during and after a heavy downpour if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Some roads can get wet, while others can look completely dry shortly after the rain. It is crucial to understand the roads to ensure you’re driving safely at all times.
Want to Learn How to Control Your Vehicle on Wet Roads?
The team at LTrent Driving School is committed to giving you the confidence you need to feel comfortable driving on the Australian roads even when it’s raining. We serve aspiring drivers across NSW, ACT, and VIC. LTrent also provides the Safer Drivers Course for learners to gain the right skills and stay safe on the road. Get in touch with us now to book your driving lessons online and start building your driving skills.