Driving in the rain? Here are more than 20 tips to consider before heading out into the rain or a light storm.
Before You Go
- If it’s bad, see if you can wait to leave to avoid driving until conditions improve.
- Consider alternate transportation options – bus? Train? Subway?
- Listen to your favorite station for weather and traffic information.
- Check your Car Emergency Kit (download our list) and replace missing items.
- Make sure your spare tire is in good condition and properly inflated; carry a jack and other tire-changing tools.
- Make sure your vehicle is in good operating condition, particularly the tires and windshield wipers.
- Allow more travel time. If you’re already running late, call ahead. Never try to make up time on the road in a storm.
- Tell a Friend: Always let someone know your departure time, expected arrival time, and route. Consider an alternate route if your regular route has roads that collect water.
While Driving (and don’t read this while driving)
General Driving Safety
- While seemingly obvious, drive carefully and defensively. Water on the road can severely affect your car’s responsiveness and reaction time.
- Safe distance: Add one car length between you and the car in front of you for every ten mph you drive. Driving 70 mph? Yep, that’s seven car lengths.
- Leave extra space between your car and the other cars on the road for extra braking time.
- Positioning and Lane Choice
- Stay in the middle lane if possible to avoid slippery shoulders and ditches. This can also give you added comfort in gauging your surroundings.
- Avoid standing water – it could be hiding potholes, unseen hazards, or lead to hydroplaning.
Handling Hydroplaning
- Properly treaded tires will help reduce hydroplaning as they “throw” water from under the tire much better than balding treads.
- If hydroplaning, resist the temptation to brake hard or turn the wheel immediately – there’s a good chance you’ll lose control. Slow the car by easing off the gas pedal and wait until contact is reestablished with the road before attempting to pump your brakes lightly. If ABS (anti-lock), break normally in one steady motion.
Brake Management
- After driving through a pool of water, lightly tap your brake pedal to dry off your brakes (specifically the rotors).
- Why? Wet brakes do not react as quickly as dry brakes.
Visibility and Awareness
- Keep an eye out for pedestrians. The combination of dark umbrellas, dark clothing, and a lot of water on your windshield can make pedestrians very difficult to see.
- Pay attention to your gauges, unusual noises, and other sights and sounds from your car. If something seems unusual, have a professional check it out.
Weather Monitoring and Decision Making
- Monitor weather conditions and seek shelter immediately if the storm seems severe. Listen to the terrestrial radio for traffic and weather reports.
- Use your best judgment. If you can’t see road signs or cars before you, consider pulling over and waiting out the heavy rainfall.
Have Time? Prep Your Car
Check the following items:
- Battery
- Recharge or replace weak batteries. If your battery is 4-5 years old, you may want to replace it.
- Have your whole charging system checked out by a professional.
- Brakes
- Have your brakes checked by your mechanic.
- Exhaust System
- Have the exhaust system thoroughly checked for leaks.
- Fluids
- Check fluid levels, battery posts, voltage regulator, and alternator or generator.
- Change your oil and oil filter as needed. A good rule of thumb for most cars is every 3,000 miles. Your owner’s manual and dealer can specify your make/model.
- Heating and Cooling System
- Check your radiator and hoses for cracks and leaks.
- Make sure the radiator cap, water pump, and thermostat work properly.
- Anti-freeze should be changed at least every two years.
- Test the functioning of the heater and defroster.
- Ignition System
- Look for and replace damaged or worn-out wires, caps, or plugs.
- Lights
- Make sure all lights are functioning correctly.
- Check if the fuses are working properly.
- Put extra fuses in your car, just in case.
- Tires
- Traction is the key to good movement, turning, and stopping on wet surfaces. The deeper the tread on your tires, the more water can be channeled out from under the tire and the more traction you’ll have.
- Check your owner’s manual or door frame for the maximum tire pressure. Do not go above that pressure point.
- Make sure to have the same tires on all four wheels. This will keep your car stable.
- Check your spare tire regularly.
Windshield Wipers and Washer
- Make sure there is enough windshield washer fluid in the reservoir. Carry an extra jug in the vehicle.
- Ensure wipers are in good condition (blades that streak should be replaced). Replace your windshield wipers at least once a year.
Photo Credit: Lotus Raphael on Unsplash