Tips for Driving in the Rain in Rocky Mount, VA

How to Drive Safely in the Rain

Everyone, wherever they live, must know the dangers of driving during the rainy season. According to the Federal Highway Administration, about 70% of weather-related crashes involve wet pavement. Low visibility and slippery surfaces make driving harder and more dangerous.

Rain is a common occurrence while driving. Skids, hydroplaning, and slick roads are all more likely to occur. Staying in control can be challenging when roads are wet. Midpoint Chevrolet Buick GMC's experts have put together some safety driving tips during the rainy season.

Hydroplaning can be prevented by slowing down, avoiding hard braking, and turning slowly. During wet weather, tires hydroplane when they rise on water films. Rainy weather requires slow driving because water accumulates on the road. A wet road can cause one to lose contact with the surface, even at speeds of 35 mph.

Drivers should also increase their following distance and slow down before turning or stopping at intersections. If you have a vehicle with a Super Cruise, it lets you set the distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.

Although it may seem common sense, many drivers let light droplets accumulate on their windshields. Raindrops should be removed with your windshield wipers to avoid stains and obstructions.

Raindrops cause streaks or smearing on windshields when wipers do not function properly. Replace your wipers when they stop working or make scraping noises. Consider using water-repellent products on your windshield during heavy rains or storms.

Most modern cars have automatic cruise control, which is standard on the Chevrolet Equinox or Blazer. This feature is excellent in dry conditions but dangerous during rainy seasons. Cruise control prevents the driver from reducing speed to avoid losing traction control.

It is important to take extra care when driving in wet weather to keep yourself and others safe. If you lose traction, you can quickly respond if you do not use cruise control.

Standing water can cause hydroplaning. You could skid across the road if you lose traction. Change lanes or steer safely around areas where water accumulates to avoid hydroplaning.

Keep your headlights on even in the daytime if it's raining. This will improve your visibility and make you more noticeable to other motorists. Rain-sensing windshield wipers and automatic headlights are standard in almost all vehicles. They allow drivers to see clearly during harsh weather conditions.

When it's raining, braking slowly and gradually is recommended. To coast your car near a stop, let the accelerator go earlier than usual. If you need to brake, be gentle and slow. Furthermore, do not use cruise control excessively to avoid being distracted by your vehicle's braking and acceleration.

Tires are often purchased solely based on price or appearance. However, rubber compounds and tread patterns designed specifically for wet weather are the best tires for driving in the rain.

When it rains, humidity levels rise, making your vehicle's windows foggy. Your car's ventilation system reduces airflow to reduce fog. Without it, your windows may get foggy, making it difficult to see outside, so you may have to pull over to clear them.

After a period of no rain, the road can be extra slippery. When oil and grease build up on the road in dry weather, they combine with water to make a slippery drive.

If you can't see anything because of the rain, even when your headlights or fog lights are on, pull over and wait for the downpour to stop. Be sure to turn on your hazard lights so other drivers can see you.

Find a Reliable Rain-ready Vehicle

One way to adapt to constant driving in the rain is to get a Chevrolet, Buick, or GMC with an all-wheel drive (AWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) system. While AWD is ideal for everyday driving and adverse weather conditions, 4WD provides rugged capabilities for serious off-roading.

Several Chevy models include all-wheel-drive systems, such as the Trailblazer, Equinox, Trax, Blazer, and Traverse. You can also choose the GMC Canyon and Sierra. The vehicles on sale at Midpoint Chevrolet Buick GMC in Rocky Mount, VA, will provide peace of mind during the rainy season. Visit our dealership, and our sales associates will help you choose the best vehicle.