How to Drive on Highways During Heavy Rain?
3 Answers
If there are low-lying waterlogged areas on the road, do not brake suddenly. Hold the steering wheel firmly and drive slowly to avoid rollover or rear-end collisions. If you encounter heavy rain on the road, try to stay towards the inner lane and avoid the roadside. Maintain a moderate speed and remember to control your speed. If it rains and the outside temperature is relatively low while the inside of the car is warm, a temperature difference will form. During rainy days, the weather is generally gloomy with very low visibility.
I remember driving on the highway during a heavy rainstorm, which was quite nerve-wracking. I immediately reduced my speed from 120 km/h to below 80 km/h. It’s crucial not to use high beams recklessly, as they can dazzle other drivers and create more danger. Instead, rely on daytime running lights and rear fog lights to make your car more visible. Increase the following distance to more than double the usual, around 150 to 200 meters, because braking distance increases significantly on wet roads. Set the windshield wipers to the fastest speed and turn on the rearview mirror defogger to prevent fogging. Most importantly, avoid sudden steering or hard braking, as hydroplaning and loss of control are major risks. If your tires are heavily worn, replace them early, as shallow treads reduce water drainage and make the car prone to skidding. If the rain is so heavy that you can’t see ahead, don’t push through—pull over at the next rest area and wait it out. Always check the weather forecast before setting off and avoid highways in heavy rain if possible. Patience is key—arriving a bit later is always better than taking risks. Regular maintenance is essential, so check your wipers and tire pressure before driving in the rain.
First-time driving on the highway during a heavy rainstorm can be really nerve-wracking. Don’t panic—keep your speed below 100 km/h, and around 80 km/h for better stability. Turn on your width lights and fog lights to ensure other drivers can see you. Don’t slack on the wipers—set them to a higher frequency. Increase your following distance to at least 100 meters and brake earlier and more gently. Take turns slowly, as hydroplaning can cause skidding. Avoid overtaking when visibility is poor—it’s high-risk. If the rain becomes too heavy, look for the nearest exit or rest area to pull over. Make it a habit to regularly check your tire wear—new tires provide much better grip. Slow down when passing through waterlogged sections on the highway to avoid splashing nearby vehicles. Remember: safety first—don’t rush to save time. Keep your phone navigation on with audio prompts, stay focused on the road ahead, and avoid distractions like music or phone calls.
