What precautions should be taken when driving in rainy weather?
2 Answers
Precautions for driving in rainy weather include: 1. Reduce speed and maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead and behind; 2. Turn on the windshield wipers to maintain good visibility; 3. Direct the air conditioning towards the windshield to reduce fogging; 4. Drive at low speed through waterlogged sections, and detour if the water level exceeds the exhaust pipe; 5. Slow down when turning and avoid sudden braking; 6. Turn on the fog lights to ensure other drivers can see you; 7. If water enters the engine, do not start the vehicle; 8. Do not restart the vehicle after it stalls; 9. Pay attention to the movements of non-motorized vehicles and pedestrians, and maintain a safe speed.
I've driven for many years, and rainy days are what I fear most for accidents. I remember once on the highway during heavy rain, I almost had a collision because I was driving too fast. Now, I always remind everyone to control their speed, reducing it to below 50 km/h or even lower to ensure the brakes don’t fail. Also, maintain a greater distance than usual—preferably one or two car lengths more—since rain increases braking distance. If the car ahead suddenly slows down, you might not react in time. Visibility is another concern: make sure the windshield wipers work properly; check them before setting off to avoid poor wiping. Additionally, turning on your lights is crucial—use fog lights or headlights even during the day so other drivers can see you clearly. Be cautious when passing through waterlogged areas; shallow tire treads can cause skidding, so it’s best to slow down and pass carefully. Above all, stay calm and don’t rush—safety comes first, far more important than reaching your destination. If the rain is too heavy, consider pulling over for a while or turning on the heater to prevent window fogging, which can impair judgment.
