In Vancouver, we get plenty of rainfall year-round. During wintertime, before we see any snow 5 days out of the entire week we are dealing with a downpour. Not only is it troublesome and frustrating but it can also be unsafe, especially if you are an inexperienced driver. During this time of year, we get more and more calls for emergency towing Vancouver. And although we are available 24/7 and more than happy to help, we want to see you be safe and do everything you can to avoid the shock and trauma of experiencing a collision.
It’s vital to be extra careful when driving in the rain, be well aware of your surroundings and have a sharp focus. Distracted driving when combined with wet, slippery roads and insufficient visibility is a recipe for collision.
Here are our 6 tips for staying safe while driving in the rain.
Slow Down
While speed limits are there for a reason and made to be followed under all weather conditions, you should drive considerably slower when it’s raining. Not only are wet roads dangerous, but every reaction of your vehicle is also slower due to water and other drivers. It’s critical that you slow down.
Slowing down also minimizes the chances of your car hydroplaning. Hydroplaning occurs when you press on the breaks too hard and too suddenly while your car is still moving. The chances of this happening when roads are wet or icy is extra high so to protect yourself, know your speed and keep it low.
Increase Your Following Distance
Stopping your vehicle is more difficult when it’s raining. During dry weather, it’s best to maintain a distance of one car between you and the car in front of you. When it’s raining, it’s a good idea to maintain a distance of several car lengths between you and the car in front of you. This gives you plenty of reaction time before stopping and going.
Don’t Use Cruise Control
Don’t rely on your cruise control while it’s raining. Although a fantastic and convenient feature to take advantage of during dry weather, its performance falls short and shouldn’t be relied upon during wet, low visibility weather. Any road conditions where nature’s elements are at play means that the chances of you losing control of your vehicle is much higher.
Avoid Larger Vehicles
There’s no way to completely avoid buses or large vehicles like trucks, but it’s important to be extra wary and cautious around them. Because they’re heavy, they are more prone to losing control and causing more damage in a collision.
To have extra peace of mind, please have our number saved in your phone as well as written down in your glove compartment, if you don’t have our card on hand. Our emergency towing Vancouver services are available 24/7, just get in touch for immediate assistance.