Driving Safety Tips for Heavy Rain

Try out these tips to drive safely in the rain.

For many people, the winter months mean increased rainfall.  If you live in an area that’s prone to winter rain, it’s important that you take certain safety measures.  Here are some tips to help drive safely in the rain.

Clean Your Windows

Before heading out into wet weather, it’s important that you clean your windshield and windows.  Because heavy rainfall already reduces your visibility, it’s important that your sight isn’t further affected by a grimy windshield.  Be sure to clean both the inside and outside of your windshield and windows and make sure to wipe down all your mirrors as well.

Inspect Your Lights and Tires

Another safety measure you should take before driving in the heavy rain is checking that your vehicle is in good order.  You should start by making sure that your headlights, taillights, and signal lights are all working properly.  If your lights are out, then you are not only breaking a traffic law, but you are putting yourself and other drivers at risk.  You should also check your car’s tires to ensure that they have adequate tread.  If your car’s tread is too worn down, then this increases your risk of skidding.

Use Your Lights

It’s important that you switch on your car’s headlights when you’re driving in the rain.  Not only will your lights help you see in the dark, cloudy conditions, but they will also help other drivers see you.  Just be sure that you do not turn on your high beams.  The bright light will reflect off of wet, shiny surfaces and can make it harder for you too see.  Additionally, oncoming traffic might be blinded by the intense light.

Reduce Your Speed

When it’s rainy and wet outside, it’s important that you employ defensive driving strategies.  Reduce your speed and increase the distance between your car and the car in front of you.  This will give you more time to react to sudden traffic hazards.  Additionally, try not to slam on your brakes in wet conditions.  This can cause your car to hydroplane and you could potentially lose control of your vehicle.

Employ these strategies to drive safely in the rain.  Remember, another way to stay safe in wet weather is by having the proper insurance protections in place.  To find the right policies to fit your needs.  Contact the experts at Mike Leonard Insurance Agency in North Texas.  Our dedicated team is eager to find you the right coverage from one of our many carriers including: Kemper, MetLife, Travelers, The Hartford, Safeco Insurance, Progressive, and American Strategic Insurance.  Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.