Before you get on the road during a rainy spring or summer, there are several things you can do to ensure that your vehicle is in the best shape possible. Keeping an eye on things like your tires, lights, mirrors, and windows can help prevent a collision before it happens so you can avoid injuries and more costly repairs.
Car Care Tips
Preventing an accident starts with you. Maintaining your vehicle helps keep it safe for you and the other drivers on the road. To keep your car in the best shape for wet weather driving, check the following.
Tires
Rainy weather and wet roads require reliable grip on your tires. To inspect them, look at each tire and look for uneven wear, cracks or bulges, anything that may be stuck in your tire, or worn treads.
To test for worn treads, put a penny in the tread of your tire so that Lincoln is upside down. The top of his head should be covered by the tire. If it isn’t, your tread worn more than it should be for safe driving.
Lights
Headlights, taillights, and turn signals can grow a layer of grime over time, the bulbs can burn out, or cracks can let water in so they stop working. Lights are important both for you to see while driving, and for other drivers to see your vehicle.
Windshield Wipers
Windshield wipers are one of your best ways to improve visibility in the rain, and windshield wax alone won’t cut it. Make sure your wipers are in good working condition, and if not – replace them.
Driving Tips
Once your vehicle is in shape, remember that as the driver, safety is your responsibility on the road. The following can help you stay safe when you’re driving in wet weather.
• When visibility is low, go slow.
• Brake sooner, but brake slower.
• Turn on your headlights and use your turn signals every time.
• Leave extra space between you and the car in front of you.
• If you hydroplane, take your foot off the pedals and don’t turn the wheel.
• Use your defroster if your window fogs over.
• Avoid cruise control so that you have control over acceleration and deceleration.
Tips for When an Accident Happens
Wet weather can lead to more accidents than dry weather. If an accident happens, always stop and work with the other involved drivers to exchange information and make sure everyone is okay. Your local collision repair technician can help you assess the damage to your vehicle and determine the best course of action.