Should You Still Go for Driving Practice When It Rains?
3 Answers
You should still go for driving practice on rainy days to adapt in advance to unexpected situations like rain during the exam. Here are some precautions for practicing driving in the rain: 1. Try not to close the windows: During the exam on a rainy day, try to keep the windows open. Rain already reduces visibility, and keeping the windows open allows for better viewing of the rearview mirrors and reference points. 2. Avoid driving too fast: Wheels are prone to skidding on rainy days, so avoid driving at high speeds. When braking, first use light braking or intermittent braking to reduce speed before applying full brakes—never slam on the brakes abruptly. 3. Adjust your mindset: Practice driving in the rain regularly. Only by practicing in the rain beforehand will you feel confident and unafraid if you encounter rain during the exam, ensuring you can complete it successfully.
As an experienced driver with many years behind the wheel, I believe it's acceptable to practice driving in the rain, but it depends on the situation. Rain makes the road surface particularly slippery, increases braking distance, and reduces visibility, which actually provides a great opportunity to hone real driving skills. In light rain, find an open road or parking lot to practice slow starts, gentle turns, and maintaining safe distances, while getting a feel for how tire traction changes on wet surfaces. This can be quite helpful for beginners or those looking to improve. I often practice in the rain myself, learning to control skidding, and now I feel much less nervous driving in wet conditions. However, if the rain is too heavy, like during a downpour or thunderstorm, it's definitely not advisable—the risks are too high, wipers may not be effective, and poor visibility increases the chance of accidents. Safety first; choose a mild rainy day to practice, and bring along a friend or family member for company and to share insights. In short, moderate practice can boost confidence, but don't take unnecessary risks.
When I was learning to drive, I also struggled with whether to practice in the rain. Experience tells me: practicing in light rain is manageable—it's good for practicing braking and reactions. Rain makes the road slippery, so press the accelerator gently and take turns slowly for better stability. I tried it a few times and found that turning on the wipers improved visibility, but it’s more challenging for beginners. I recommend practicing on familiar routes and avoiding busy roads—keeping a safe distance is key. If the rain is too heavy, reschedule; otherwise, poor visibility can make you nervous. Bring an instructor or friend to help watch the road and correct mistakes. Through these practices, I mastered the tricks of driving in the rain and now I’m not afraid of slippery conditions. Don’t rush—start with light rain and gradually adapt.
