Summer thunderstorms are a common occurrence during the warmer months. While they may rain out your baseball games, they can also provide stunning and awe-inspiring attractions in their own right. Of course, if you happen to be on the road when a downpour kicks up, you may have a slightly different attitude. Severe rainfall can present unique driving hazards, and if you find yourself on the road during a storm, knowing how to handle it can help to ensure your safety.
Know the hazards
One of the risks many drivers are aware of when dealing with excessive rainfall is skidding. The wet pavement can make the roads slippery, resulting in a lack of control in steering and braking. In the event of extremely heavy rain, drivers face the risk of what is known as hydroplaning – an instance where a buildup of water actually pushes underneath a car's tires, causing the car to actually skid or glide above the road. In these scary occurrences, you can lose total control of your car if you're not careful. Taking preventive measures is recommended in poor weather, as well as knowing how to react in the event that your car skids.
Slow down
One of the biggest preventive steps you can take is also one of the simplest – reduce your speed. According to AAA, a car can lose contact with the road in as little as 1/12 inch of rain going as slow as 35 mph. Not only will reducing your speed help you avoid hydroplaning, it will also give you more time to react in the event of an emergency.
Keep your tires in good shape
Your tires are responsible for keeping you safe in your car, and this goes double in the event of poor road conditions. Under-inflated tires can lead to loss of control or reduced handling, which will only be magnified when roads are wet. Check your tire pressure and tread before heading out into a storm, and be sure to replace worn-out tire treads.
What to do in a skid
If you do find yourself hydroplaning, don't panic. By staying calm, it's possible to weather this woeful occurrence safely. Don't slam the brakes or jerk the steering – instead, ease off the gas slowly and keep steering the wheel in the direction you want the car to go.
When you're shopping for a new car, head to NJ State Auto Auction. You'll find hundreds of Carfax-certified cars on the lot, and an in-house finance team is ready to help you afford the used vehicle of your choice.