Every region on this planet goes through heavy rains. This weather may create unfavorable driving conditions. The wet roads increase the risk of accidents by 34 percent. Additionally, the leading cause behind 46 percent of weather related accidents is rainfall and consequently wet roads. It shows that driving on wet roads increases the fatality rate significantly.
If you go through an unfortunate accident while driving on slippery roads, calling a professional panelbeaters.net.au saves you from a lot of trouble. This blog covers the salient tips that are sure to secure you and your vehicle when you are navigating slippery asphalt roads. Keep on reading to explore them in detail.
Five Tips to Drive Safely on Wet Roads
This blog compiles five practical tips to help you get to your destination safely.
Reduce Speed
Driving at a fast speed is a dangerous thing, but on wet roads, it becomes essential to lower the speed considerably. When the roads are wet, there is a high chance that you wouldn’t be able to stop your car suddenly. Low speed also allows the driver to judge any changing circumstances and give more time to react appropriately. Wet roads might cause the tires to lose traction and make your vehicle hydroplane. Also, avoid taking your car out when it rains. The water from fresh rain brings out the oil and makes roads even more slippery.
Increase the Following Distance
When it comes to driving on a slick road, always keep twice as much space as usual from the automobile in front. The surface spray from the puddles of water also impairs your vision, along with rain. If you do not keep a sufficient distance, your chances of getting into a rear end accident are high. If possible, do not drive behind gigantic vehicles like buses and vans. They create big sprays, which make it impossible to see and judge the distance accurately. Keeping this tip in mind will save you from any hazardous mishap.
Avoid Sudden Braking and Turns
Taking sharp turns on slippery roads is not only dangerous for you, but it also puts other people in jeopardy. Be careful when you are trying to make a turn or change lanes. Similarly, avoid sudden brakes as well. The slick roads increase the brake time, so you need to take precautions before pressing it. Take your foot off the car accelerator earlier than you would and let your vehicle slow down. Then, gradually hit your brakes to stop it. Keep ample space and have enough time in case you need to press the brake suddenly to avoid danger.
Check Tire Condition
The tires of your automobile create contact with the road and allow you to drive safely. However, tires need extra care during the rainy season. Remember to inspect the tires to see if they are inflated adequately. Under or over inflation results in decreased traction. The tire expels water and creates firm contact with the road to overcome mishaps. But if your tires are exposed to wear and tear, it might be difficult for them to keep a grip on the road. The level of traction decreases, and you find the vehicle totally out of your control.
Use Headlights Wisely
It is a strict law to keep your headlights on when driving through the sheet of heavy downpour. It helps to improve visibility to other drivers and lets you see any oncoming hazards as well. It is essential to keep these lights on, especially when you are driving on slippery roads at night. The rain and darkness force you to focus ahead while significantly reducing your peripheral view. Fog lights are quite handy. They are positioned lower and create a low angle for less light scatter. You need to keep them on to save yourself from mishaps.
Conclusion
Wet road conditions cause a significant number of fatal road accidents globally. It means that every driver has to be extra cautious when dealing with slippery roads. This blog explored the tips that are sure to help you when you want to travel during rainy weather and on slick roads.
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