April showers might bring May flowers, but they also turn roads into slick runways. Stay safer this Spring – rain or shine – with the following driver safety tips:
Moderate Your Speed: Rain makes roads slick, especially during the first 10-15 minutes of a downpour when oils on the pavement rise to the surface. Adapt your speed to the conditions. A slower, steadier pace can prevent unwanted slides and skids.
Increase Your Following Distance: Extend the following distance between you and the vehicle ahead. More space means more time to react. It is recommended that you increase your following distance to at least four seconds behind the vehicle ahead of you.
Watch Out for Hydroplaning: Hydroplaning happens when your tires lose contact with the road and glide on a layer of water. When this happens, you lose some control of your vehicle. It’s important to remember to steer and not slam on your breaks. Instead, ease off the accelerator and gently steer in the direction you want to go.
To prevent hydroplaning, it’s essential to keep your tires properly inflated and check tread depth. Worn tires are more prone to losing grip. You should also drive in the tire tracks of the vehicle ahead. This helps disperse water more effectively.
Brake Gently and Avoid Cruise Control: Try to avoid sudden braking or sharp turns, as these can cause skidding. Instead: Brake gently and early to allow more stopping time. Also: Turn off cruise control. This feature is great for dry roads but can cause your car to accelerate if you hydroplane, making it harder to regain control.
Lights On: Misty rain may not seem like much of a danger, but when driving, visibility matters. Keep your vehicle’s headlights clean and fully functional. Good visibility is essential for both seeing and being seen. Be sure to use your low-beam headlights – even during the daytime. Using high beams in heavy rain or fog can reflect off the water droplets and actually make it harder to see.
Check Your Wipers: Ensure your windshield wipers are in good condition to maintain clear visibility. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.
Be Extra Careful Around Puddles: Treat puddles with caution, as they can be deeper than they appear. Standing water isn’t just a nuisance – it can hide potholes and cause hydroplaning. Even worse, just a few inches of water can cause your car to stall, and a foot of water can sweep it away.
Never drive through floodwaters. It’s impossible to judge the depth, and hidden currents can be stronger than they appear. If water is rising around your car, abandon the vehicle immediately and move to higher ground. Your car can be replaced… your life can’t.
Be Prepared for Emergencies: Spring weather can be unpredictable, so it’s smart to keep an emergency kit in your car with essentials like:
- A flashlight & extra batteries
- A rain poncho & umbrella
- A portable phone charger
- A basic first-aid kit
- A bag of sand or kitty litter for extra traction if you get stuck
Spring rain might bring flowers, but it also brings hazardous road conditions. By staying cautious, maintaining your vehicle, and adjusting your driving habits, you can avoid hydroplaning and other weather-related accidents.
Sources: National Traffic Safety Institute, Midwest Certified Insurance Agency
