Exercise caution when driving in the rain. Engine oil and grease build-up on the roads and highways over time, and when combined water, it’s like an automotive Slip ‘N Slide.
1) Slow down. Wet pavement causes tires to lose traction and you vehicle become more difficult to handle. If you can stay off of the fast lane or black top pavement lanes to prevent hydroplaning. (Example is Northbound 15 Fast lane from Kenwood Ave to Cleghorn.)
2) Avoid standing water on the roadways. Not only can you hydroplane and lose control, but you can impair your vision and other drivers’ visibility by splashing through puddles. Move over, standing water often shields potholes and debris from view and it can reduce the effectiveness of your vehicle’s brakes.
3) Drive in the tracks of the car in front of you. This allows the vehicle ahead to displace any standing water that’s on the road.
4) Increase your following distance. Slick roads, wet brakes and reduced visibility can lead to collisions. Give other vehicles plenty of room and brake early with reduced force.
5) If your car begins to hydroplane, do not brake or turn the wheel abruptly as this may cause your vehicle to go into a skid or spin. Take your foot off the gas and keep the wheel straight until your car reclaims traction. Brake gently if needed.
6) Don’t use cruise control.
7) Grip the steering wheel with both hands to maximize vehicle control. This means putting down your cell phone
8) Keep your tires and windshield wipers in tip-top shape.
9) Defog your windows. Precipitation can cause your windshield to quickly fog up, so use the front and rear defrosters to maximize visibility.
10) Turn on your headlights. It’s the law to have your headlights on when the windshield wipers are in use.
Employing these safe driving techniques can save your life and maybe a accident.
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