Tips for Driving Safely in Heavy Rain

Over the long weekend the East and West Coasts got their share of rainy weather. The country seems to be in-between Fall and Winter weather patterns. Here are a few tips about driving safely when liquid falls (I’ll discuss driving in a blizzard another time). Did you watch the Macy’s Day Parade? We advised people to bring their umbrellas – Ugh what a mess.

• Windshield Wipers – Replace worn wipers blades when they start to streak.

• Tires – Keep tires inflated to manufacturers recommended levels. You will find this information on the inside of the door or in the driver’s manual.

• Slow Down! – We are always in a rush. But, slowing to the conditions is one of the safest things you can do.

• Avoid flood prone roads – Never drive into standing water on a flooded road. Standing water can be sucked into your engine. Also, cars can be swept away on less than an inch of moving floodwater. Seek an alternate route.

• Turn your lights on – A good rule is to always turn lights on when it starts to rain. In some states it is the law.

• Know what to do when hydroplaning – Hydroplaning occurs when your tires glide across a surface of water on the road. If your car starts to hydroplane, take your foot off the gas, but don’t stomp on the brakes. Instead, if you have manual transmission, push the clutch and let your car slow down on it’s own. With automatic transmission, hold the steering wheel steady and lightly apply the brakes.

When the weather is bad – rain or snow – just take your time. Eventually, you will get there. … and in one piece.

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