Does Driving Resistance Increase or Decrease in Rainy Weather?
2 Answers
Driving resistance decreases in rainy weather. The main factors affecting safe driving during rainy days are as follows: Obstructed visibility. Slippery road surfaces. Reduced adhesion. Decreased friction. Here are some additional details: If it has just stopped raining heavily and the road has been dried by the sun, this provides the best friction performance. When driving in the rain, obstructed visibility and slippery road surfaces reduce wheel adhesion sharply as speed increases, making the wheels prone to skidding. At high speeds, vehicles are also susceptible to "hydroplaning," so it is essential to control your speed appropriately.
Over the years of driving, I've noticed a significant increase in driving resistance during rainy conditions. When the roads are wet and slippery, the frictional resistance between the tires and the wet surface becomes much greater. I remember driving on the highway during heavy rain last year—pressing the accelerator felt more strenuous, the engine was humming louder, and fuel consumption increased noticeably. Normally, driving 100 kilometers would consume about 8 liters of fuel, but on rainy days, it could rise to over 9 liters. This resistance doesn't just affect fuel efficiency; it also leads to longer braking distances and a higher risk of skidding. I would recommend checking the tire tread depth and ensuring proper tire pressure before driving, as this can help reduce resistance. Always slow down and drive cautiously in the rain—safety comes first.
