HOW TO BEHAVE ON THE ROAD IN ADVERSE WEATHER?
Rain and wet roads cause considerable problems for drivers on the roads. Roads are slippery, vehicle characteristics change and the risk of an accident increases. However, you can drive safely even in the rain.
Autumn in Slovakia is mainly characterized by rainy and windy weather. Rain and wet roads cause considerable problems for drivers on the roads. Driving in these conditions only requires a certain amount of experience and information, which should not be forgotten.
It is important to be prepared for adverse conditions even before driving. If you are afraid of bad weather, due to lack of experience, if possible, stay where you are. When the rain stops, you can safely hit the road again. Also consider choosing your route. Beware of flood-prone roads and underpasses.
One of the most important things that make a difference in how a car behaves in the rain on the road is the age, condition of the tires and especially their pattern. Worn tires hold less on a wet road, which can lead to skidding and possibly a subsequent accident. If the tires do not have a deep enough tread, the tire will not be able to drain the water from under it and the vehicle will lose its grip on the road surface. Then it loses contact with the road or aquaplaning occurs, a condition in which the car is uncontrollable. If you find yourself in a state of aquaplaning, do not apply gas, do not brake, if it is not necessary, turn the steering wheel and press the clutch. When aquaplaning, it is important to wait until the wheels meet the road again and gain traction, then the resistance of the water will slow the vehicle down.
When driving in bad weather, keep behind the car in front of you. It helps you break up the water that is on the road. However, pay attention to the fact that visibility decreases during rain and the braking distance can be doubled, so drive more carefully and keep a greater distance between vehicles.
Leave a gap of at least five seconds between your vehicle and the vehicle in front. When driving a vehicle in the rain, control it more sensitively. Do not brake hard, because sudden reactions can send you into a skid. If by chance you find yourself in a skid, just keep the brake at a constant pressure and turn the steering wheel in the direction of the skid. On a wet road, the use of cruise control entails a higher risk of an accident due to aquaplaning. With cruise control, you will lose control of the vehicle much faster. Also try to avoid large puddles. It is difficult to estimate their depth, and with a lighter car, entering a puddle can send you into a skid.
Don't forget that daylight is not enough for you in rainy weather. In most cars, the rear lights are turned off during the daytime. Therefore, the first thing after getting into the car is to check that the headlights are on. In heavy rain, it is important that other vehicles see you in time and can react if necessary. In case of heavy rain and reduced visibility, do not forget to use the fog lights.
In our car rental company, we are in charge of the steps to prepare the vehicle for bad weather. So you don't have to worry about them with us. You just need to rent a vehicle from us and follow these tips for bad weather.
However, even driving in the rain is unpleasant for most drivers. Therefore, you should not forget to be more considerate of other drivers, follow a more relaxed pace and fully concentrate on driving the vehicle.