Why Should You Slow Down in Rainy Weather?
3 Answers
There are three main reasons for slowing down when driving in rainy weather: 1. Rain reduces driver visibility. 2. Wet conditions increase tire braking distance. 3. Emergency braking is more likely to cause skidding on wet roads. Safe driving precautions for rainy conditions include: 1. Maintain good visibility: In addition to cautious driving, promptly turn on windshield wipers and use low beams and fog lights in dim conditions. If frost forms on the front windshield, turn on the AC to defrost it. For rear windshield frost, activate the rear defroster to quickly clear it and maintain visibility of vehicles behind you. 2. Prevent wheel skidding: Rainwater on roads acts as a lubricant between tires and pavement, reducing braking effectiveness and increasing skid risk. Drivers should hold the steering wheel firmly with both hands, maintain straight-line driving at low speeds, and apply brakes gently when turning to avoid wheel lock-up and skidding. 3. Drive slowly in low gears: Regardless of road width or condition, use second or third gear, keeping speed below 30-40 km/h. Constantly monitor distances between your vehicle and others, and be prepared to take emergency actions. When stopping, begin braking gently about 100 meters in advance to give following vehicles adequate warning. 4. Avoid water submersion: When approaching flooded areas like underpasses or deep tunnels, first stop to check water depth. Water above the exhaust pipe can stall the engine, while water above the bumper may enter the vehicle. Never cross water obstacles at high speed, as this creates splashing that increases actual water depth and may cause engine flooding.
After driving for so many years, slowing down in rainy weather has always been my steadfast habit. Rain makes the road surface particularly slippery, significantly reducing tire grip, and driving too fast can easily lead to skidding or loss of control. Visibility also becomes blurred, making it difficult to see vehicles or pedestrians ahead, especially at night or during heavy rain when glare is severe. Braking distances are noticeably extended; what normally takes 50 meters to stop might require 70 meters in the rain. I've witnessed many rear-end collisions simply because drivers were going too fast to stop in time. That's why now, whenever it rains, I proactively reduce my speed and leave ample safety space. This approach makes driving more stable and secure, helping to avoid accidents.
As a parent who frequently picks up and drops off children, I am particularly concerned about slowing down in rainy weather. Wet roads increase the risk of tire slippage, and high speeds make it difficult to control the vehicle. The oil film formed by rainwater washing away dust makes the road even more slippery, reducing braking effectiveness. When picking up and dropping off children during school hours, there are many pedestrians and vehicles on the road, and visibility is obstructed, making it hard to see the school zone clearly. Slowing down helps protect everyone's safety. My experience is that driving slowly in the rain not only prevents accidents but also makes the ride more comfortable for children. Safety comes first; time is not an issue.
