How Much Slower Should You Go when Driving on Slick Wet Roads in the Rain in Garland, TX

Roads can become hazardous when they are wet. Wet pavement is responsible for 73% of weather-related accidents. Everyone slows down when roads are icy or covered with snow but not so much when they are wet. Most drivers will drive just as quickly on wet roads as they do on dry roads. Driving in the rain is dangerous. If you need to drive when it’s raining out be extra careful and slow down. It’s also a good idea to turn off the cruise control if you’re using it. Accidents that occur on wet roads are caused by slick limited visibility, slick roadways, or hydroplaning.

Limited Visibility when Driving in the Rain

Rain will always lead to limited visibility. It can darken the sky and make it hard to see. When visibility is limited it’s a law to turn on your headlights and keep them on while you’re driving. It will help you see better and other drivers will be able to see you better. Be careful driving around semi-trucks as they already have limited visibility even when the weather is good and create a buffer around your vehicle by staying out of blind spots. Try to avoid pulling off the road when there is limited visibility as most people follow the taillights in front of them when visibility is limited, and you don’t want to get rear ended.

Slick Roadways when Driving in Rainy Weather

Any surface becomes slick when it gets wet. Roads become very slick when they get wet because it mixes with oil buildup. The road will be most hazardous during the initial downpour and in areas where it rarely rains. The safest thing you can do is slow down, so you don’t find yourself sliding off the road. Posted speed limits are the maximum speed you should travel in ideal conditions. If it’s raining you should drive below that speed limit and increase the distance that you follow other drivers, so you have more time to react.

Hydroplaning

Hydroplaning happens when the tires on your car lose contact with the road. It can be scary because the tires no longer have traction with the road and you can’t control your car – that’s scary! If you feel slack in your steering wheel, it’s an indication that you’re hydroplaning and if you know how to handle the situation it doesn’t have to be terrifying. Your first reaction might be to apply heavy pressure to the brake, but you should ease off the gas instead. If that doesn’t work, you should gently apply the brake. If your car doesn’t not have anti-lock brakes you should use slow, steady pumps on the brake. As you work the pedals you should firmly hold the steering wheel and gently keep the car as straight as you can.

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It’s also important to keep your tires in the best condition possible. Tires with deep tread can better disperse water away from the tires and provide better traction. This of course makes it harder for your vehicle to slip on wet roads and will help avoid hydroplaning. Drive carefully when roads are wet. If you get into trouble you should contact Citywide Towing Service for help.

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