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Re: One Rough Winter Ahead
Has anybody heard if the leaves are changing...
Must-Know Tips for Rainy Day Driving.
While few enjoy driving in the rain, it's something that most people have to do. Here are some tips so you can drive in wet weather as safely as possible:
Windshield Wipers: Replace worn wiper blades as soon as possible to assure best visibility in the rain.
Tires: Keep tires inflated to the manufacturer's recommended tire pressure. (listed on your car's door frame or in the owner's manual, Not the "max pressure" rating on the tire.) Over or under inflated tires can affect traction, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Replace worn tires immediately. Make sure all four tires match.
Windshield Washer Fluid: Keep fluid level topped off.
Slow Down! Stopping times are greatly reduced on wet pavement, so reduce speed and leave a greater distance between yourself and the car ahead. Leave earlier, if possible, to allow more time to reach your destination.
Avoid flood-prone roadways: Never drive in standing water on a flooded road. Standing water can be sucked into your engine via the air intake and can ruin your engine. Also, a car can be swept away on less than and inch of moving flood water. If you see a flooded portion of a road, turn around and find another route.
Turn your lights on: Having your headlights on in the rain greatly increases your ability to be seen by other drivers. Remember to switch them off again when you reach your destination.
Know what to do if your car starts hydroplaning: Hydroplaning occurs when your tires glide across the surface of the water on the road. If your car starts to hydroplane, take your foot off of the gas, but DO NOT stomp on the brakes. Instead, if you have a manual transmission (stick-shift), push in the clutch and let the car slow down on its own. If you have an automatic transmission, hold the steering wheel steady and lightly apply the brakes.
