With winter on its way, young drivers can expect an onslaught of unpredictable weather during the next few months. In other words: rain.
It’s too warm to snow, but too cold to be sunny, resulting in a dreary, rainy few months before winter hits. For new drivers, wet roads can be challenging. To help you stay safe this fall, here are a few tips for driving on wet roads:
Adjust Your Settings
There are some precautions you can take to stay safe on wet roads, even before you start driving. Rain causes your window to fog up almost immediately. Visibility is important when driving on wet roads. To avoid a foggy windshield, turn your defrost setting on high.
Check Your Wipers
There is nothing more dangerous than broken windshield wipers in the middle of a heavy storm. If you notice one or both windshield wipers are ineffective, replace them immediately.
Wipe Your Feet
To keep your foot on the pedals while driving, it’s important to dry off your feet beforehand. Wet boots or shoes can cause your feet to slide off the pedals unexpectedly, putting you and others at risk on the road.
Be Cautious Around Corners
Water can be just as dangerous as black ice. Aquaplaning, which occurs when a thin layer of water on the road’s surface causes you to lose control, is a serious concern for new drivers. To avoid aquaplaning, slow down around corners and going down hills.
If you do find yourself aquaplaning, it’s important not to slam on the brakes. Similar to how you would react when hitting an ice patch, keep your hands firmly on the wheel and brake gently if you need to. Try to stay calm.
Drive Under the Speed Limit
In adverse weather conditions, you should always drive under the speed limit. Rain makes it difficult to stop, accelerate, or turn quickly.
Leave Space Behind Cars
In heavy traffic especially, it’s important to leave space between your vehicle and other cars. Rain can increase your chances of rear-ending another vehicle by sliding.
Turn Your Lights On
Even in broad daylight, rain can significantly decrease visibility. To ensure you can see, and that other cars can see you, it’s important to drive with your lights on in the rain.
Driving in the rain is something all drivers must face. As long as you know which precautions to take, and how to stay calm in challenging situations, you will adjust to driving on wet roads in no time.
If you are interested in taking your driver’s test, or want to learn more about safety tips for driving on wet roads, the professionals at Ambitious Drivers can help. Get in touch with us today!
