Tips for Driving in Wet Weather

Driving in wet weather tips

Perhaps most car accidents happen during wet weather and caused by drivers who don’t take the extra caution while the roads are wet. First and foremost: slow down! It takes longer to stop or adjust in wet weather. Any vehicle will slip on wet roads so ad extra distance between yourself and the cars in front of you. Also, the best choice to make on a flowing traffic is to lower the speed perhaps by 5 – 15 kms/hour.

Roads today are engineered to slow downwards toward the sides. The center of the road is designed so that gravity pulls the water down hence to the sides. So, drive toward the middle lanes if possible – water tends to pool in the outside lanes.

Although it is best to reduce speed in wet weather one should also Maintain proper following distance (3 Second Rule in dry weather and this needs to be increased in wet weather somewhat. The heavier the weather conditions the more time should be allowed between yourself and the next car in front of you.

Maintaining your driving in the same tracks of the car ahead of you will be best because the water that is already on the track has been washed by the wheels of the car in front and thereby allowing you to have a better grip on the road.

In wet weather it is best to avoid following large trucks or buses too closely. Allow a good distance so that the turbulent water droplets do not obscure your view. Driving too closely to bug vehicles tends to cause dirt and large amounts of water to be thrown onto your windscreen.

Another factor to be aware of when overtaking large vehicle only pass with care and only when it’s safe to do so. If you must pass, do so quickly and safely. Never rush, wait for the best opportunity and then make the move.