With nearly 1.5 million crashes a year caused by damp pavement and rain in the United States, wet weather is something that you should take seriously if you want to stay safe behind the wheel. Read on for advice on navigating these hazardous conditions in Frederick, MD.
5 Smart Tips for Driving in Wet Weather in Frederick, MD
1. Prepare Well
It’s impossible to predict exactly when and where a cloudburst might strike, but you’ll be better able to cope with it if your car is downpour-ready. Always make sure that your:
- Wiper blades are clean and effective
- Windshield and windows are clean inside and out
- Air conditioning works well enough to defog the windows
- Headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn indicators are in good working order
- Tires are properly inflated with good tread
Making an effort to keep your car well-maintained will protect you on the road, whether it’s wet or dry, but if you’re caught in a sudden rainstorm, you definitely don’t want to have to cope with unnecessary worries.
2. Slow Down
Wet driving conditions put you at risk of hydroplaning, where the tires slide along the surface of the water, and you lose control of your vehicle. This can occur when you’re going at just 35 mph, so it’s important to reduce your speed and avoid sharp turns or hard braking. Water will also lessen the friction between the tires and the tarmac, so a wet road will double your stopping distance, making a steady pace all the more crucial.
3. Light Up
Rain and spray won’t just obscure your view of the road: they’ll prevent other drivers from being able to see you. Always switch on your headlights in wet conditions but avoid the high beams. They won’t help, but they will bounce off wet surfaces to dazzle other drivers.
4. Give Space
Wet driving conditions should make you even more careful of other road users. Give plenty of space to trucks and other heavy vehicles, as they’ll throw up spray that makes it even harder to see the road. With longer stopping distances, it’s even more important to leave plenty of space between you and the vehicle in front and to watch carefully for brake lights up ahead.
5. Stay Home
Remember that there are no prizes for driving in difficult conditions, and if the roads are very bad, then delaying or canceling the journey is the best guarantee against accidents. And if the roads become too difficult to navigate or the water becomes too deep, it’s better to turn around than to risk a mishap or potential car damage.
Bad driving conditions can’t always be avoided, but keeping your car in tip-top condition is a straightforward way to ensure you’re equipped to manage them. Schedule an appointment at DARCARS Used Cars and Service Center of Frederick for expert service and the best maintenance support. Let us ensure that your vehicle is ready for anything.
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