Just Drivin’ in the Rain...

by Ron Tackitt (reprinted from the October 22, 2009 issue of Outword)

With the colder weather and rain upon us, it might be prudent to remind everyone, including myself, that driving in wet conditions requires a re-calibration from our day-to-day dry weather habits.

After a long, dry period, dirt, grease and oils build up on roads. The first rain will loosen, and mix with these ingredients and can prove especially slippery, much more so than just a wet road.

Just because your car has anti-lock brakes and airbags doesn’t mean you are invincible. These modern safety features are great, but they can’t drive safely for you. So, replace your windshield wipers if they need it and take advantage of these safety tips:

1. Slow down. Give yourself more time to get where you are going.

2. Apply your brakes sooner, and don’t press as hard as you might otherwise. The last thing you want you car to do is hydroplane (when water actually comes between your tires and the road). If you do start hydroplaning, don’t brake or turn the wheel suddenly. That’s how people skid off the road.

3. Avoid driving through large puddles or rushing water. Unless you have an off-road-rated SUV, chances are your car will not like being submerged. If your car should stall while crossing a stream of water, you could find yourself in big trouble if the water starts rising quickly.

4. Use your headlights. There are few things dumber than driving in the rain without your lights on. Everyone’s visibility is reduced, help them see you coming.

5. If your windows are fogging up inside the car, turn on your air conditioner. (It will blow hot air if you twist the temp dial.) The AC’s compressor will take moisture out of the air that passes through it, so the condensation on your windows quickly dries up. Voilá! Clear windows – much safer driving.
These are just a few tips and if you would like more, simply type “driving in the rain” into Google. You will find lots of sites with great advice.