Does Rain Affect Driving Practice?
3 Answers
Rain affects driving practice because it can obscure visibility and make vehicles more prone to slipping, especially testing the skills of beginners. Below are some tips for practicing driving in the rain: Prepare tissues or a handkerchief: Wipe the rearview mirrors before getting in the car. If using tissues, remember not to litter—put them in your pocket and dispose of them in a trash bin later. When practicing in the rain: Wear shoes with textured soles to improve grip. Shake off any water from your shoes before entering the car, and rub them against the floorboard a few times before placing them on the clutch or brake to prevent slipping. Dry your hands before holding the steering wheel to avoid slipping. Use the windshield wipers frequently: The wiper control is located on the lower right side of the steering wheel, opposite the turn signal button. Learn to use the wipers when driving in the rain.
As a driving instructor, I've seen too many students practice driving in the rain, and indeed, rain can affect training effectiveness. Wet roads increase the risk of skidding, blurred visibility leads to difficulty in judgment, and beginners are more prone to nervousness and mistakes. During lessons, I usually slow down to practice basic maneuvers, such as gently applying the brakes and maintaining a safe distance. If the rain is too heavy, I recommend rescheduling or switching to a simulator. Practicing in the rain can help develop emergency response skills, such as using windshield wipers and controlling speed, but safety must always come first. I recommend starting on a light rainy day, ensuring that the car lights are bright and the wipers are functioning properly, which allows for experience accumulation while avoiding accidents. Remember, slow and steady can turn a rainy day into a valuable learning opportunity.
As a veteran driver with decades of experience, I believe practicing driving in the rain has significant impacts. Wheels are prone to losing control during rainy conditions, and poor visibility can leave beginners flustered—sharp turns or hard braking might cause the car to skid off the road. However, from another perspective, it's also a great opportunity to hone skills. I learned slow-driving techniques in light rain when I was young. Before practicing, I recommend checking tire pressure, ensuring the wipers work effectively, and keeping all lights on. If the rain is too heavy, it's best to pause—safety comes first. Driving in the rain helps accumulate real-world experience, which is valuable in the long run. Still, avoid taking risks in heavy storms; protecting yourself is key.
