rainy driving
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rainy driving

rainy driving During rain, the number of accidents increases by 35% and even reaches 182%. Due to the instinctive behavior of drivers, such as slowing down or increasing the distance from the vehicle in front, traffic accidents are statistically less dangerous. The first hour after the start of rain is especially dangerous. *

Research has shown positive changes in driver behavior when it rains, but that also seems to matter. rainy drivingfew or not enough drivers. For example, slowing down does not necessarily mean a safe speed, sums up Zbigniew Veseli, director of the Renault driving school.

In addition to the type of road surface and insufficient tire tread depth, speeding is one of the main causes of skidding on wet roads. It is best if the driver had the opportunity to practice getting out of the skid earlier in safe conditions, because in such a situation he performs maneuvers automatically, say Renault driving school coaches. – The first sign of hydroplaning is a feeling of play in the steering wheel. In such a situation, first of all, it is impossible to brake sharply or turn the steering wheel.

  • If the rear wheels are locked, oppose the steering wheel and accelerate rapidly to prevent the vehicle from turning. Do not apply the brakes as this will aggravate oversteer.
  • When the front wheels lose traction, immediately take your foot off the accelerator and straighten the track.

Depending on the intensity and duration of the rain, visibility is also reduced to varying degrees - in the event of heavy rain, this may mean that the driver can only see the road up to 50 meters. Working wipers and unworn brushes are indispensable when driving a car at any time of the year, but especially in autumn and winter, instructors advise.

In such weather conditions, the humidity of the air also increases, due to which steam can form on the windows. The flow of warm air directed to the windshield and side windows contributes to their effective cleaning. A similar effect can be achieved by turning on the air conditioner for a while. Air must be drawn in from the outside, not circulated inside the vehicle. When the car is stationary, it is best to open the window for a moment to get rid of excess moisture, Renault driving school instructors explain.

During or immediately after heavy rain, drivers should be careful of passing vehicles, especially trucks, whose spray further reduces visibility. Water on the road also acts as a mirror that can blind drivers when driving at night by reflecting the lights of an oncoming vehicle.  

* SWOV Fact Sheet, Impact of Weather on Road Safety

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