Page 32 - AAA Magazine – AAA Ohio Auto Club – May 2021

Staying Safe on Wet Roads
By Emily Derr
April showers bring May flowers, but that doesn’t necessarily mean the rain stops in May.
As spring continues, it can sometimes bring
severe weather, and rain on the roadways can mean treacherous driving for unprepared motorists. Thankfully, when it comes to staying safe in bad weather, there are many things that motorists can do to remain protected behind the wheel.
Waiting until the weather improves is an easy way
to avoid danger. If there’s a chance you can postpone traveling until the weather clears and you feel comfortable driving, you should do so. Unfortunately, that’s not always possible. If you’re obligated to go out, practice some of these driving tips to safely ensure you make it to your destination.
Make sure your car is rain-ready. Your tire tread, windshield wipers, headlights and taillights are all essential things to check. Low tread on your tires can reduce your traction on slick roads while old windshield wipers don’t always get the job done when it comes to
clearing rain from your windshield. You should always have your headlights on when it rains so other drivers can see you. In fact, it’s the law that your headlights must be on if your windshield wipers are in use.
Slow down, keep ample distance between your car and other vehicles and avoid heavy braking. Slick roads mean less reaction time for your car. If something were to happen, driving too fast or too close to another vehicle could mean disaster. Be wary of hydroplaning, losing traction from driving through standing water.
This can cause your car to skid across the road. If you start to hydroplane, take your foot off the gas and avoid making sudden turns or slamming on your brakes.
Making a conscious effort to stay safe on wet roadways can be the difference-maker in avoiding an accident. Simple decisions like staying home, slowing down and turning on your wipers and headlights are all effective ways to remain safe. If you’re involved in an accident, make sure to notify the police and your insurance company right away.
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