Driving in the rain is no stranger to the residents of Hawaii. While morning showers are a common occurrence, we do also get the occasional rain/windstorm. And with the rain comes slippery-slick roadways. The U.S. Department of Transportation attributes roughly 20% of all car accidents to poor weather conditions. This month we’re divulging five safety and driving tips to keep you free from harm when on wet roadways.
1. STAY ALERT
While driving can sometimes turn into a subconscious habit, it’s important to remember that when it rains we must adjust our thinking for the given driving and weather conditions. Stay alert and stay focused on what is happening around you. You may need to brake or pull to the side at any given moment.
2. DON’T FORGET YOUR LIGHTS
When visibility is low, it is required by all drivers to turn on the vehicle’s headlights. Having your headlights on is helpful to the drivers around you, especially when driving on a highway at high speeds in the rain.
3. SLOW DOWN
Prepare for your drive to be a little longer than usual when commuting in the rain. Speed limits are meant for ideal weather and driving conditions, which is hardly the case when it’s pouring cats and dogs outside.
4. KEEP YOUR DISTANCE
Bringing your vehicle to a stop may be more difficult in the rain. Allow yourself a little more distance normal when gauging the space between you and the car in front of you.
5. BE AWARE OF HYDROPLANING
An excess amount of rain may cause your tires to lose traction. When this happens, slowly let your foot off of the gas pedal, and steer as straight as possible until your tires regain control. If your vehicle begins to spin out, turn your wheel in the same direction you are spinning until you begin to slow down. Trying to overcorrect the situation may result in your car flipping over.
While we hope these five driving tips help you on those rainy days, accidents may still happen. If they do, please give our professionals a holler. We are committed to getting you back on the road as quickly and as safely as possible!