Nobody enjoys driving in the rain, but it's especially difficult and dangerous to drive your car in heavy rain. It makes everything so much more challenging. The roads are slick, your visibility is reduced, and it's an unpleasant experience. But sometimes you don't have a choice - especially if you live in a place with harsh weather. Thus, it's important to know how to maneuver during a storm safely and effectively. Here are Bill Holt Chevrolet’s top tips for doing just that!
Safety Tips for Driving Your Car in Heavy Rain
If you find yourself behind the wheel in heavy rains, follow these tips to stay safe:
1. Slow Down:
It may seem apparent, but one of the best things you can do in this situation is to slow down. Lowering your speed provides you more time to react to hazards and makes it easier to control your car.
2. Inspect Your Car:
Before driving in heavy rain, inspecting your car is a good idea. Check your ride's windshield wipers and replace them if worn out. You should also make sure your headlights are in good working order.
3. Be Prepared for Hydroplaning:
One thing all drivers dread about driving in the rain is hydroplaning. This happens when your tires lose contact with the road, causing you to lose control of your car. To avoid hydroplaning, slow down and don't brake suddenly. If your ride starts to hydroplane, take your foot off the accelerator and steer straight until you regain control.
4. Increase Following Distance:
Another noteworthy safety tip for driving in heavy rain is to increase your following distance. This will give you more time to react if the car in front of you suddenly stops or slows down.
5. Use Your Headlights:
Make sure your ride's headlights are on during a rainstorm. This will help you see the route better and make it easier for other drivers to see you.
6. Don't Let Water Enter Your Exhaust System:
If you ever find yourself in a situation where you have to drive through deep water, make sure that the water doesn't go into your car's exhaust. If it does, it can cause your engine to stall.
Here's How Bill Holt Chevrolet Can Help!
After rainstorms, it's always a smart idea to have your vehicle checked out by a professional. At Bill Holt Chevrolet serving McCaysville, GA, we're happy to help our customers keep their vehicles in tip-top shape. Our service department can check for any damage that may have been caused by the bad weather and make sure your car is running smoothly.