Driving in the Rain? Three key things to keep in mind: Vision, speed and visibility
Spring showers may bring flowers, but it also brings more accidents and potential automotive issues. There are key things you can do to stay safe out there.
Switch it Up!
When is the last time you changed out the wiper blades on your vehicle? Most of us rarely think about them unless we have the bad fortune of parking beneath a bird’s nest (yuck!) or when we are experiencing inclement weather.
Basically, we forget about them until we need them, yet we always expect them to perform. These little guys are essential to your springtime weather preparedness. As much as it’s important to drive safely and more slowly in times of inclement weather, many times we overlook the most important thing–we need to be able to see!
You should be sure to replace your wipers regularly, every six months is recommended, but at minimum you should replace them once a year. Wiper blades in bad condition don’t clear water from the windshield very well and distort your view. Older vehicles may even need to have the whole wiper arm replaced as they bend over time and may not keep enough downward pressure to clear the windshield.
Slow Speed Racer, Slow!
As for speed… slow down! This may be obvious, but it is very important. People get into a routine of driving certain speeds on certain roads and many often fail to slow down when inclement weather presents itself. Losing control of your car on wet pavement is a frightening experience and you can prevent skids by driving slowly and carefully, especially on curves. Brake before entering the curves. Steer and brake with a light touch. If you find yourself in a skid, remain calm, ease your foot off the gas, and carefully steer in the direction you want the front of the car to go.
You’re Not Invisible Man (or Woman)
Last but not least, in times of limited visibility, such as when it is raining, turn on your headlights. Without them on, other drivers will have a hard time seeing you! Headlights are both helpful to you and to other travelers and help ensure your safety. Even if you may be able to see cars without their headlights on others may not have vision or windshield wipers as good as yours and it’s better to be safe than sorry!
