Lake Elsinore Honda

Aug 9, 2022

8 Tips For Safe Driving During A Downpour

The sound of rain tapping against your windshield can be therapeutic, but driving in heavy rain can be dangerous. Especially if you have bald tires, a flawed engine, an unguarded exhaust, or even bad brakes – there is so much that can go wrong!

Driving when it rains is never fun, but it’s something that we all have to do from time to time. You can do a few things to stay safe if you’re stuck in a storm or heavy rainfall. Lake Elsinore Honda, your buddy auto dealership serving Temecula, AL, brings you the following tips:

1. Drive With Your Headlights On

We may not need to remind you of this, but it’s still worth mentioning. You’d be surprised how many people forget to turn their headlights on when driving in heavy rain. Headlights aid you in seeing the road ahead and make it easier for other drivers to see you.

2. Slow Down

It’s tempting to want to get where you’re going as quickly as possible when it’s raining, but it’s essential to take things slow. Driving too fast makes it more challenging to see and can increase your chances of automobile accidents.

3. Be Careful of Puddles

Puddles can be deceiving – they might look shallow, but you never know how deep they really are. Driving hastily through a puddle can cause water to splash up and cause engine damage if it seeps in.

4. Use Your Windshield Wipers

Windshield wipers are a necessity you cannot forego when driving in heavy rain. They help you see by clearing away the water on your windshield, so ensure you are using them correctly.

5. Keep Your Distance

Due to the lack of friction, it takes longer to stop driving on a wet road, so you must leave enough space between you and the car in front. This will help you avoid rear-ending someone or getting into an accident.

6. Don’t Drive Through Flooded Roads

This is a dangerous mistake many drivers make. It only takes a foot of water to float most cars, and two feet of rushing water can sweep away almost any vehicle. So, if you see a flooded road ahead, turn around and find another route.

7. Check Your Tire Pressure

Tire pressure drops about 1 PSI (pound per square inch) for every 10-degree drop. When it’s cold outside, your tires are more likely to be underinflated, which can cause a blowout. Make sure your tires are appropriately inflated before heading out in wet weather.

8. Avoid Using Cruise Control

In slippery conditions, it’s best to avoid using cruise control. If your wheels start to spin, cruise control will keep them turning, leading to losing control. You’re better off driving without it.

Conclusion:

Following these simple tips on driving in heavy rain can help you stay safe on the road when there’s a heavy downpour.

If you’re looking for an auto dealership in Temecula, AL, visit us. At Lake Elsinore Honda, we will help you find the perfect car for your needs. With our Honda inventory of new and used vehicles, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for. 

We also offer financing options and service center assistance. Contact us today to learn more!