Driving in the rain in Tasmania can be particularly hazardous due to reduced visibility, slick road surfaces, and unpredictable traffic conditions. These challenges can be even more stressful for learner drivers. Rainy weather never provides ideal driving conditions, but since it often occurs unexpectedly, all drivers must prepare for it before driving on the road. Follow the following few basic rules to drive safely in rainy conditions.
When driving in wet weather, try to keep your speed down. Slowing down is the first and most crucial piece of advice for driving in rainy conditions. It is more difficult to stop fast on wet roads because your tyres have less traction, and it is more likely that you will lose control of your car. You can react more effectively to unforeseen rainy weather conditions that could become dangerous by driving more slowly. In addition to improving your tyres’ traction on the road, lowering your speed also gives you more control when driving in rainy conditions. Drive more slowly and at a pace suitable for the road conditions.
It is important to maintain a safe distance from the car ahead of you because you have no control over it. On wet, slick roads, stopping and braking take longer. Make sure your car is at least five seconds apart from the car in front of you. If the vehicle in front of you suddenly brakes, you will have enough time to respond thanks to this longer stopping distance. In such a situation, you have a better chance of responding if the vehicle ahead of you loses control because of the driving conditions caused by the rain. It is important to keep a safe distance to avoid crashes.
As your primary defense against rain, your windscreen wipers must be in good operating order. Check the condition of your wipers and replace any worn out ones. Additionally, make sure the nozzles are clear and check the windscreen washer fluid. Before you need to use them, you should do this. Wet weather can quickly cause your windscreen to fog up, making it harder to see. To maintain a clear windscreen, turn on the defogger or set the air conditioner to cold. If your windscreen wipers are worn out, replace them since they are necessary for driving in the rain.
Visibility can be lowered by rain, fog, and mist, making it more difficult for other vehicles to see you. When it begins to rain, turn on your headlights and make sure they are bright and clear. Other drivers may find it more difficult to see you if there is rain, fog, or mist. To improve your visibility on the road ahead, turning on your headlights can assist other drivers in seeing you more easily. Make sure your headlights are clean. Putting on your headlights can help you see the road ahead more clearly as well.
When a tiny layer of water creates a barrier between the road and your tyre’s contact patch, it interferes with the tread’s ability to grip the road, causing hydroplaning. As soon as your tyre loses traction, you may slide and spin uncontrollably. Take a deep breath and softly steer into your slide if this occurs. Instead of turning around, slowly apply the brakes to restore control while turning the steering wheel in the same direction as your skid.
Get traffic alerts online or on the radio to be informed about accidents, road closures, and delays. To prevent needless delays and select the safest routes, plan your trip appropriately and factor in additional time for travel if there is a high probability of rain. Keep additional water, a torch and a first-aid kit in your car always in case of emergencies. When driving in difficult situations, maintain your composure and concentration. Don’t panic and keep your car under control.
Overall drive slower, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, avoid braking suddenly or making quick, sharp turns and never drive through flood waters. Always drive safely in rainy conditions.
Read more about: What to do when your car breaks down in Tasmania
