5 Tips for Driving Safely in the Rain

 Here in Western Washington, we're used to the rain. We have to learn to play, work, and drive in the rain because life can't stop when we get some (more) of that liquid sunshine. But it's important not to become complacent while driving in the rain and to remember a few important key tips to keep you driving safely on your way.

Here are 5 things you can do to driver more safely in our rainiest seasons:

Prepare Your Vehicle

Make sure your windshield wipers work or replace them if needed. Make sure you are able to defrost your vehicle so you can see clearly out all the windows. Replace any head or tail lights as necessary and keep plenty of gasoline in your tank. If you aren't 100% confident in your vehicle, give us a call to make an appointment with our service department!

Don't Drive Through Standing Water

You see the signs and hear the warnings: don't drown, turn around. Already this rainy season we have been hit with a couple serious rain storms that have left many roads underwater. Do NOT try to drive through water on the road or go around signs blocking roads. It isn't worth the risk to your life or your vehicle. It seems that no matter how many times we read/hear the warnings, there are always people who ignore them and require rescuing by first responders.

Slow Down

If you've been driving for any length of time, you know the terror that comes from hydroplaning, which occurs when your car is driving a high rate of speed and goes on top of standing road water...and results in you losing control of your vehicle. Sometimes it is difficult to see where there might be standing water on the road, so it's a good idea to slow down no matter what. Driving slower also makes it so your vehicle can slow down without sliding/skidding on the wet road, which has less traction.

Don't Use Cruise Control

It's tempting to use your vehicle's cruise control option whenever you can, but it is important NOT to use it when driving in the rain. Why? The cruise control will keep your wheels turning at the same speed no matter what is happening...even if you hit standing water. Instinctually, we can feel when our vehicle goes over standing water and, hopefully, can slow down quickly enough that the vehicle stops hydroplaning and we regain control. Or if we feel the water is suddenly slippery, we can instantly slow down by taking our foot off the gas a little. When we use cruise control, it is always full-steam ahead.

Use Headlights

Even in the middle of the day, using your headlights makes your vehicle easier to see in the rain. Those dark rain clouds and reflections off the rain/wet road can make it difficult for you to see...and for people to see you! Help prevent someone from turning out in front of you at the last minute or stepping off the curb in front of you by turning on your headlights any time it starts raining.