We’ve all wondered, “How can a few drops of rain cause everyone to forget how to drive?”
Although there are other factors at play, it is true that bad weather, particularly rain, has a significant impact on our visibility and vehicle performance on the road. Rainy weather, in fact, is directly related to higher accident rates.
As we are now in the rainy season, there are a few things that you should consider when heading out on the roads:
Watch out for Slippery Surfaces
One reason it appears that everyone has forgotten how to drive in bad weather is that the initial period of rain mixes with the oil residue and dust on the road’s surface. As a result, the surface becomes extremely slippery as the mixture rises above the rainwater and interferes with the traction of your tyres on the road. The dust and oil mixture will eventually be washed away after some rain.
Heavy Rain Affects your Visibility
The ability to see clearly is hampered by rain. Because of the refraction of light caused by rain and wet surfaces, it can be difficult to see other cars, pedestrians, road signs, and even the road itself. To try to reduce this, it is critical that your vehicle has effective windscreen wipers. Windscreen wipers are made of a soft rubber that eventually wears out and must be replaced. It is recommended that you replace your windscreen wipers every six to twelve months, or whenever you notice a decrease in visibility.
Chances of Hydroplaning
When the road surface becomes wet, it affects how well your tyres grip the road. This can cause hydroplaning or aquaplaning, which occurs when water causes your car’s tyres to lose contact with the road’s surface. It can be brief or last several seconds. This is exacerbated if your tread depth is shallow, the rainwater depth is deep, and you are driving at a high speed. The faster you go, the less traction you have on a wet surface. Hydroplaning increases your chances of an accident.
If you start hydroplaning, remember not to panic. Avoid abrupt braking or turning, as this could cause your car to spin out of control. Instead, take your foot off the accelerator and grip the steering wheel tightly. Look for a clear open space and gently steer your car in that direction if possible. You can lightly pump the brakes if you have ABS and traction control.
How is your Tyre Pressure?
The pressure in your tyre affects its ability to grip the road properly. An underinflated tyre can cause an uneven distribution of force on the road, affecting your tyre’s contact patch or footprint, the portion of the tyre that is in actual contact with the road’s surface. With an underinflated tyre, the tyre’s footprint will be slightly concave in the centre and will be unable to effectively displace water. This raises your chances of hydroplaning. Proper tyre pressure results in an even footprint that can more effectively push through water.
Your tyre pressure is also affected by the weather. Temperature fluctuations can cause your tyres to lose or gain pressure without your knowledge. You must remember to check the air pressure in your tyres on a regular basis to ensure they are properly inflated.
How is your Tyre Tread?
The tread of a tyre is designed with grooves to effectively disperse water while driving, ensuring tyres keep the rubber in contact with the asphalt, maintaining good traction, and avoiding slippage. When your tyre tread is worn, you have less grip on the road, and your tyre can’t disperse water as efficiently. This may cause the tyre to lose traction and result in hydroplaning.
Driving Safely in Bad Weather. What Should You Do:
- Put your headlights on, preferably on a dipped beam.
- Reduce your speed.
- Leave a safe following distance between yourself and the car in front. Stopping your vehicle is more difficult when driving in the rain, so leave a space of 3 car lengths between you and the car in front.
- Don’t use cruise control. Maintain control over your brakes and accelerator.
- Avoid any puddles or standing water, as this can lead to hydroplaning.
- Use your air conditioning or ensure adequate ventilation to prevent your windows from fogging up.
- Because you are trying to see in front of you through the rain, you may overlook your surroundings. Try to keep an eye out for other vehicles in your blind spots and behind you.
Car safety tips:
- Check the pressure and tread on your tyres. On wet roads, balding tyres can severely reduce traction.
- Make sure your windscreen wipers are in good working condition.
- Ensure your brake lights, taillights, headlights, and indicators are working.
If you are concerned about the state of your tyres or windscreen wipers, give us a call. Autoworld offers unparalleled service and advice to our customers.