Driving in heavy rain at night can be treacherous. The darkness and the weather can combine to create extremely dangerous conditions. However, you can stay safe on the road with a few simple safe driving tips.
In this blog post, Auffenberg KIA of Cape Girardeau will discuss some tips for driving in heavy rain at night.
Tip 01: Check everything before heading out.
Before you even turn on your car, it’s important to check a few things. Make sure your car’s windshield wipers are in good working condition and that you have plenty of windshield wiper fluid.
It’s also wise to check your tires. In heavy rain, your tires can make the difference between staying on the road and hydroplaning. On slippery roads, balding tires may significantly diminish traction resulting in hydroplaning.
Lastly, check your air conditioning. Rain can cause the temperature outside to decrease, which increases the likelihood that your windows will fog up. Your A/C should be capable of keeping the temperature inside your car at the same level as the outside to prevent fogging.
Tip 02: Drive slow and stay below speed limits.
Although it may seem apparent, this point has to be made again. Driving too fast in heavy rain is a recipe for disaster. Not only will you have a hard time seeing, but you’re also more likely to lose control of your car. Avoid driving completely in severe weather if you can. However, if you must go outside, make careful to move slowly.
Tip 03: Keep hazard lights turned off and headlights on.
When your automobile is stopped on the side of the road, your hazard lights should be on. They convey to other drivers the need for caution. However, they may also be a distraction, so it’s better to leave them off when driving in a lot of rain. As for headlights, make sure they’re on so you can see and be seen by other drivers.
Tip 04: Avoid standing water.
Standing water is one of the biggest dangers of driving in heavy rain. Finding another route is best if you can’t see the ground through the water. Failure to remain safe on wet roads can result in hydroplaning.
It happens when your car’s tires begin to contact standing water rather than the road’s surface. Drivers start to hydroplane, which causes them to lose control of their cars. The driver may experience significant stress from feeling out of control.
Be sure to keep your calm at all times if you find yourself hydroplaning. Put your foot off the gas slowly and turn your automobile in the desired direction. Finally, avoid making any sharp bends or braking your car.
Tip 05: Don’t drive if you’re not comfortable.
If you don’t feel comfortable driving in certain weather conditions, don’t do it. Driving in heavy rain at night can be dangerous and stressful, not to mention the risk of hydroplaning, so only attempt it if you’re confident in your abilities. If not, wait until the weather clears up or find another way to get to your destination.
Always keep road safety as your first concern when driving in heavy rain at night. Following these safe driving tips can help ensure a safe and smooth journey.
Want to ensure that your car is ready for heavy rains?
Visit Auffenberg KIA of Cape Girardeau, serving Tamms, IL. We have experience working with KIA of all makes and models.
