Tips For Driving On Wet Roads

SLIPPERY WHEN WET

Tips for safe driving in slushy mush, driving rain and drizzle does not make for easy driving. Slick roads and poor visibility can challenge even those most experienced behind the wheel. It’s no surprise that more than 20 percent of accidents are weather-related. While it’s best to stay home in bad weather, if you need to drive, here are some tips for staying safe on the road.

Beam down.

High beams can reflect the rain and make it harder to see. Use your headlights on low beam for better visibility. Headlights will also help others see you.

Slow down.

Reduce your speed overall by one third when driving on wet roads, to give yourself more time to react. And all turns and stops should be done gently.

Wipe down.

If you’ve just walked on wet pavement or on the grass, dry your shoes before driving. Wet shoes can cause you to slip off the pedals.

Signal sooner.

Use your turn signals sooner than you would ordinarily to give other drivers more warning.

Stay away.

Increase your traveling distance from the car in front so you have more time to react if it stops suddenly

Brake it in.

It’s important to avoid driving in flooded areas or puddles, which could saturate brakes. If you do go through water, brake lightly to dry them out.

Skid sense.

If you feel yourself hydroplaning—when your car is not making contact with the road—don’t turn or brake suddenly, which could cause a skid. Instead, ease your foot off the gas until the car slows and you feel the pavement again.

If you do skid, slowly take your foot off the gas and steer in the direction you want the front of the car to go (“steer into the skid”). This will bring the back of your car in line with the front.

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Content source: Kemper