Increased braking distance on slippery roads during rain, what should be done while driving?
2 Answers
Emergency braking should be avoided as much as possible. Below are some methods for maintaining your car after it gets wet in the rain: 1. Wash the car promptly: Rainwater in cities is usually acidic and carries sticky substances that remain on the car after evaporation, making them difficult to remove. Therefore, car owners should not be lazy after the rain and should send the vehicle to a 4S shop or a professional car detailing shop for cleaning as soon as possible. Pay special attention to cleaning out sludge and other debris from the gaps under the doors and inside the wheel hubs, and ensure these areas remain dry. Also, clean any dirt from the car's chassis. 2. Paint care: Since rainwater often contains acidic substances that can corrode the outer glossy layer of the car's paint, and it also carries invisible dust that can lead to the formation of oxides when exposed to sunlight, it's advisable to perform a paint treatment after the rain. A simple and effective method is waxing. 3. Brake system dewatering: Most car braking systems use a dual-circuit vacuum-assisted hydraulic brake, and the brake fluid that transmits the braking force is highly absorbent. If rainwater enters the brake fluid, it can cause brake failure or even complete loss of braking. Therefore, during maintenance, it's essential to check the brake fluid and any water traces on the brake discs to ensure the safety of the driver and passengers.
When driving in the rain, the roads become particularly slippery, and the braking distance increases significantly. Having driven for many years, the most important thing I've learned is to slow down. I usually keep my speed slightly lower than usual to ensure I have enough reaction time in case of emergencies. Additionally, maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle in front is crucial—normally one or two seconds might suffice, but in the rain, I extend it to four or five seconds. If the rain is heavy and fogging becomes an issue, I turn on the defogger and headlights to improve visibility. I remember one time on the highway when it suddenly started raining, and I didn’t slow down enough—I almost rear-ended another car. Since then, I’ve been extra cautious. When weather conditions change drastically, I check the tread depth of my tires beforehand, as worn tires lose grip and are more prone to skidding on wet roads. While driving, I don’t just focus on what’s ahead but also frequently check the rearview mirror and both sides to avoid sudden braking or sharp turns—these habits significantly reduce risks. In short, developing good driving habits is essential, and never underestimate the impact of rainy conditions.
