Rainy season in Ohio is a dangerous time to drive. In fact, nearly three-quarters of all weather-related car accidents happen on wet roads, according to the U.S Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration. Avoid car accidents while you’re out on the road this fall and winter by remembering these three wet weather safety tips:
#1: Check your tires and wipers
When it hasn’t been raining for months, we tend to forget about our windshield wipers. Before you drive in the rain, you should make sure that your front and back wipers are both in good shape.
You should also check the tread on your tires before doing a lot of driving in the rainy season. If you are replacing your tires, you may want to consider tires that are designed to handle wet conditions more effectively.
#2: Slow down for the weather
During the rainy season, drivers will have less visibility and shorter stopping distances. Your speed should be adjusted to account for these dangerous driving conditions. Driving slower could also allow you more time to react if your car starts to hydroplane.
#3: Adjust braking for wet roads
Braking abruptly on a wet road can lead to skidding. Cars also take longer to come to a full stop when the road is wet, so you should plan ahead each time you are going to brake. Try to brake smoothly around curves by slowing down as you approach the curve.
Wet weather driving requires your full attention
Since driving on wet roads requires you to focus even more, you can’t afford any distractions. If you are used to looking at your smartphone at all while you are behind the wheel, now is an excellent time to stop.
