Driving and braking in the Rain

Depending on whereabouts you live, you may have a great deal of experience driving in the rain, or very little.  The amount of time you have spent on the road in general is also a factor as with driving, experience is hugely important.  Driving in heavy rain can prove problematic even for those accustomed to it.  Even driving in wet conditions after rain can make driving much more hazardous than usual.  As with any severe weather, if there is a heavy rain storm in progress, do not venture out in your car unless you have to. 

If going out in a storm is absolutely necessary, there are a few precautions that should be taken before you set off.  When you first get into the vehicle, there is a likelihood that the inside of the windows will mist up, make sure they are clear so your visibility is as good as possible when you begin to drive.  If it is raining or dull and overcast, put on your lights so you can be seen easily by other road users.  Consider whether your wipers are in good working order regularly – they need changing more frequently than many people think for optimum performance.  Tires and brakes also need to be maintained correctly so they can be as useful as possible in poor weather.

Always drive slower than usual in rainy and wet conditions – poor visibility can mean it is hard to spot hazards.  Keep further than usual behind the vehicle in front, wet pavements mean that if the vehicle in front brakes suddenly, you will take longer to slow or stop and are more likely to skid due to reduced traction.  Larger vehicles such as trucks and buses can send up a lot of spray when the pavement is wet.  This can reduce visibility for drivers of lower vehicles, and also for the large vehicle driver – they may not be able to see so well out of their side mirrors.  If following a lorry or another large vehicle, you may have to keep further back than from other vehicles, and use extra caution when over taking them. 

Water lying on the surface of the road can prove to be extremely dangerous.  If possible, avoid driving through deep puddles as there may be holes in the pavement underneath that could cause damage to your car.  If there is a large amount of water across the road you may wish to choose another route to your destination.  If the water level is above the bottom of the car door it may cause damage to electrical equipment.  If water is deep and flowing quickly try to avoid it, as cars can easily be swept off the road by strong currents.  If you have driven through a large amount of water, be sure to test your brakes.  If brakes become wet it can have a negative impact on their performance, tapping and testing your brakes can help the rotors and pads to dry out.