A complete guide to driving in the rain: Did you notice these details?

Driving in the rain can significantly increase accident rates due to poor visibility and slippery roads. Do you know what details are most easily overlooked? Let's review your rainy day safety checklist!

1. Preparation before departure

1. Check the wiper condition
   • The wipers are aging and cannot scrape cleanly. It is recommended to replace them every six months to a year.
2. Confirm that the lights are functioning properly
   • Including headlights, taillights, turn signals, and fog lights to increase the chance of being seen.
3. Check tire tread and tire pressure
   • If the tread depth is less than 1.6mm, the tire needs to be replaced, and insufficient tire pressure may cause slipping.
4. Anti-fog and waterproof glass
   • Anti-fog agent can be used on the inside and water-repellent agent can be used on the outside to improve vision.
5. Emergency supplies in your suitcase
   • Such as raincoats, tow ropes, triangle warning signs, etc.

2. Details of driving

1. Slow down and keep safe distance
   • Braking distance on slippery roads increases, so maintain a longer safe distance than usual.
2. Avoid sudden braking, acceleration, and sharp turns
   • Reduce the risk of slipping and loss of control.
3. Make good use of headlights and fog lights
   • Even if it rains heavily during the day, you should turn on the lights so that the other person can see you clearly.
4. Be careful of water splashes and water accumulation
   • Accumulated water may hide potholes. Slow down when wading to avoid water entering the engine.
5. Avoid oil stains and fallen leaves on the road
   • These areas are extremely slippery and should be avoided.
6. Stay away from large vehicles
   • The water mist raised by large vehicles will seriously affect vision.
7. Watch out for pedestrians and motorcyclists
   • Pedestrians' vision is obstructed and motorcycles are prone to slipping, so please pay more attention to the surrounding conditions.

III. Response to Special Situations

1. What should I do if I encounter heavy rain with extremely low visibility?
   • Turn on the warning lights, pull over, and wait until your vision returns before driving off again.
2. What should I do if the engine stalls after wading?
   • Do not start the engine again, seek towing help immediately to avoid engine damage.
3. What should I do if my car windows fog up?
   • Turn on the air conditioner defogger function, or open the car windows slightly for ventilation.

4. Common myths about driving in the rain

• "Slow speed means safety?"
  You need to slow down appropriately on slippery roads, but if the speed is too slow, it will affect the judgment of vehicles coming from behind. It is safest to maintain a suitable speed.
• "Will lower tire pressure provide better grip?"
  Wrong! Insufficient tire pressure can cause slippage. Please follow the manufacturer's recommended tire pressure settings.

5. Rainy Day Driving Speedometer

Editor's opinion:
Driving in the rain requires extra caution. I used to think it was just rain, no big deal, but after a few close calls, I realized safety is paramount! Do you have any rainy driving adventures? Or do you have any tips of your own? Share them in the comments below so everyone can get home safely!