Driving during bad weather can be challenging. If possible, you should decide to wait until the weather gets better before heading out on the road. You’re taking a huge risk when it’s raining, given the strong winds, poor visibility, and slippery roads. If you really have to travel when it’s raining or are already in the middle of a journey, these tips are useful to keep you safe.
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Check the tire treads
Tire treads help keep the grip while you drive on a slippery road. Regular maintenance will let you know if the tire treads are okay. If you already have issues with the tires even before the bad weather conditions, you should cancel your travel plans.
Always wear the seatbelt
Not only will you be abiding by the law by wearing the seat belt, but you will also decrease your chances of an injury. Since there’s poor visibility during the rain, you might have to hit the brake suddenly more often. Without the seatbelt on, you could be at risk.
Forget the time when you’re driving in bad conditions
The last thing you want to do is drive quickly in bad weather conditions. Speeding is already risky in normal weather. It’s even worse when it’s raining. Try clearing your schedule before you drive, so you have no reason to rush. If you have to get back home for an appointment, you have to cancel it. You want safety to be your priority and not arriving on time.
Always keep your distance
Never drive too close to the car in front of you. Keep distance since visibility is poor. Your eyes can’t see clearly what’s in front. You might even think that the car is moving when it isn’t. When there’s sufficient distance, you can still hit the brakes before bumping into the other vehicle. The ideal distance is nine seconds behind the car in front.
Always slow down when making a turn
It’s easier to lose control when the road is slippery. Therefore, you should slow down before a curve or when making a turn. It enables you to have a better grip of the controls and hit the brakes if you’re having trouble moving forward. Even if it’s a turn you’re already familiar with, you should be extra cautious.
Plan the safest routes
Choose highways when traveling long distances during bad weather. Even if there are shortcuts available, you have to avoid them. Those roads might be steep and narrow. You will have a more challenging path ahead. Worse, there might be fallen trees and other debris blocking the road.
Despite observing caution, you might still end up in an accident. Call the police right away and ask for medical help. You should also consider seeking assistance from a Boynton Beach towing company if it happens in the area since you can no longer continue driving. It’s safe to ask for the towing service to move the vehicle to a better location. Again, if the weather is terrible and there’s an advisory not to head out, you should heed that call.
