What should drivers pay attention to when driving in the rain?
1 Answers
Rainy days are prone to traffic accidents because rain reduces driver visibility and decreases friction between tires and the road, making accidents more likely. Precautions for driving in the rain: Maintain good visibility: Besides driving cautiously, promptly turn on the windshield wipers and use lights, air conditioning defogging, and other functions appropriately. Lights not only provide illumination but also signal your position to other vehicles. With low visibility in the rain, turning on lights promptly can significantly reduce accident rates. However, avoid using high beams in heavy rain as the reflection can impair visibility. Prevent tire skidding: Wet roads increase the risk of tire skidding. When turning, avoid sudden braking—reduce speed in a straight line before entering the curve. In emergencies requiring sudden braking, stay calm: either steer to avoid obstacles or brake in a straight line. Avoid braking while swerving, as this is ineffective. Drive slowly: Regardless of road width or conditions, reduce speed in the rain and constantly monitor the distance between your vehicle and others. Be mentally prepared to take emergency actions. Low visibility and reduced braking performance in the rain necessitate early deceleration to allow ample time and space for safe maneuvering. Reduce fogging: Sudden rain can lower the windshield temperature, causing interior moisture to condense into fog and obstruct vision. In such cases, use the air conditioning defogger. Master water navigation: Exercise caution on flooded roads, typically driving straight at low speed without stopping. If water levels exceed the exhaust pipe, detour. Maintain safe following distance: Avoid tailgating large vehicles, as they can block your view and may traverse water depths unsafe for smaller cars. Large vehicles also create splashes that can affect smaller vehicles. Watch for pedestrians: Umbrellas and rain gear limit pedestrians' and cyclists' visibility, hearing, and reaction times. They may cross suddenly or panic when vehicles approach, leading to slips. In such situations, slow down, yield patiently, and stop at a safe spot if necessary. Never rush or compete with pedestrians and cyclists.
