What should you pay attention to when driving in heavy rain?
2 Answers
When driving on rainy days, road surfaces are prone to water accumulation and become slippery, reducing the friction between the wheels and the ground, which can easily cause the vehicle to skid. Therefore, it is essential to reduce your speed. In heavy rain, visibility is impaired, so it's important to increase the distance between vehicles. Exercise caution when driving through waterlogged areas; attempting to pass through severely flooded sections may lead to water entering the engine, causing it to stall. Before driving in the rain, always check your windshield wipers. If water mist obstructs your view while driving, promptly turn on the wipers and the car's air conditioning to ensure the windshield remains clear. Otherwise, obstructed visibility poses significant risks. Slow down and avoid sudden braking. When roads are wet, the friction between the tires and the road decreases, making the vehicle more prone to skidding and increasing braking distance. Therefore, it's crucial to drive at a reduced speed and avoid sudden braking to prevent the car from veering off course. Make turns slowly and avoid sharp steering. Due to slippery conditions during rainy weather, turns should be made slowly and gradually. Otherwise, reduced friction can cause the vehicle to fishtail, leading to dangerous situations. Minimize lane changes and overtaking. Poor visibility and slippery roads make the car harder to control than usual, so it's best to stay in your lane and avoid unnecessary maneuvers. Maintain a longer following distance. Wet roads increase braking distance, so drivers should keep a more reasonable distance between vehicles to ensure safety in emergencies. Use your lights properly! With reduced visibility in the rain, always turn on your low beams, position lights, and fog lights. However, avoid using hazard lights (double flashers), as this could result in fines and penalty points.
I place great emphasis on safety when driving in heavy rain, as experience has taught me that rainy days come with higher risks. First, adjust your driving speed to a manageable range—don’t prioritize speed. Second, maintain a safe distance from the car ahead, adding at least an extra one or two car lengths to account for sudden braking. Third, check your vehicle’s condition: the windshield wipers must effectively clear the rain, and the tires need proper pressure and tread depth to avoid skidding. Turn on all lights—headlights and fog lights help improve visibility, but avoid using high beams to prevent glare. If you encounter a waterlogged area, don’t rush through at high speed; pass slowly to prevent hydroplaning. Keep a steady grip on the steering wheel, and avoid sudden braking or sharp turns. Additionally, frequently check your rearview mirror for vehicles behind you and avoid distractions like phone use. By following these steps, both your car and you will stay safe.
