Driving in Rain

Member Joined: Dec 31, 2009 Posts: 24

I haven't see this topic covered, apologies of it is and I am repeating someone else's advice.
No matter where you go in the world, all roads are slippy on the first day of rain after a dry spell.
I never realised just how slippy until I started driving high-sided hackney taxis (which are more likely to slip anyway because of their design).
Every day, other vehicles drop patches of oil and fuel and other slippery things on the roadways which you never notice after it has dried out in the sun or wind.
First day of rain, and the whole road surfaces become deceptively slippy until sufficient rain has fallen to wash the lot away.
It is really important to keep your speed down at times like this. The first you might know of a slippery surface is when your vehicle suddenly spins out of control.
Lower speed gives you a better chance of regaining control without having an accident.
The tread on tyres should always be within the legally required limits too. The deeper the tread, the greater ability the tyre has to travel through puddles and lying water without mishap.
Oh and LIGHTS, while we're on the subject. While you may be able to see perfectly well in daylight in heavy ran, other drivers might not be able to see YOU, so make yourself visible, to ALL raod users, pedestrians as well as drivers and used DIPPED HEADLIGHTS. Side-lights are next to useless. Be visible, be seen, keep you speed down, keep your tyres in good order. Be safe!

Posted: Thu Dec 31, 2009 6:49 pm

Pretty solid advice Izzy, I agree completely. In fact I have a real life story published here, from a guy who underestimated the slippery of a starting rain... http://www.funandsafedriving.com/ftopict-133.html

Member Joined: Dec 31, 2009 Posts: 24

Thanks Misha:)
I've just read it. OMG that's all I say.
Well not ALL obviously, you more or less the same that I was thinking - daft wee boy racer without the experience to cope with the road conditions. Never understood why kids are allowed such a powerful car. Must have had rich parents because the insurance alone would have been astronomical.
I hope this story gets read by all new and or young drivers.
They need to read and take in onboard.

Driver Joined: Dec 30, 2009 Posts: 124

Driving In Rain? Driving Safety Tip, huh? The first thing I thought of was: The windshield wipers had better work. Work like in doing their job well.

There's an interesting article on this at weather.com. It begins:"When it comes to driving in rain, there is nothing more important than having a good set of wiper blades. Windshield wiper blades... " The article is found at this link: http://www.weather.com/activities/driving/drivingsafety/drivingsafetytips/wxRain.html

Yes, the windshield wipers must be properly maintained. And don't forget the tires.Good tires are essential for diving on wet, slick roads.

Active member Joined: Dec 24, 2009 Posts: 52

Even the best drivers can get a little nervous about driving in rain, but it can be a bigger challenge for older adults or people with disabilities, who may have slower reflexes and vision limitations.
Being prepared and taking it slow can help you feel more secure on the road.

Driver Joined: Dec 30, 2009 Posts: 124

Driving Tips & Road Safety : How to Drive Safely in Rain http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0jKl0JvOqkA