Rains can contribute to cases of accidents on the roads. This is because rains can cause havoc and reduce visibility. In addition to that, heavy rains lead to flooding which can cause an accident. In such a time, debris, rocks, and mudslides are washed to the highways, and they can be a barrier to timely and safe driving. This article is going to guide you on driving in rain.

How to Drive Safely in Heavy Rain

There are several things that you can do in order to drive safely in heavy rain. To start with, you need to slow down. High speeds are a major cause of accidents even on smooth roads and even during days with good weather. When you slow down while driving, you are going to have a higher chance for appropriate intervention in the case of an imminent accident and you can react in time.

Get Seen

When you are driving in heavy rains, you need to ensure that you are visible to other drivers and that they can see you. If you use headlights, both the drivers as well as the pedestrians can see you.

Avoid edge of the road

When you are driving, it is important that you avoid driving at the edge of the road. Most Canadian roads are constructed with the middle of the road slightly higher. When this is combined with a slippery road, you could find yourself skidding to the side of the road.

Get Informed

It is worth catching up with news and being updated on the weather. With information about the weather, you are going to be psychologically prepared about the possibility of heavy rain, and therefore, you will make an educated guess on what you are going to do.

Pull off

The Alberta Motor Association says that there are some circumstances that could force someone to pull off the road, and one should do this right away. Pulling off the road in time could help in saving lives. Again, obeying your gut feelings is a matter of paramount importance. If you decide to pull off the road, do not park your car near electricity poles or trees. In addition to that, avoid parking in low-lying areas due to possible flooding.

Hydroplaning

Hydroplaning is a situation where the car moves above the water but does not touch the ground. This means that the driver has very little grip on the road, and therefore, he does not have much control. This can be a tragic situation. If you experience such a situation, do the following: stay very calm, ease the brakes, and do not turn the steering wheel. This will give you a chance to slow down the car and get in touch with the road again.

Conclusion

If you are sure there will be heavy rains, then the most prudent thing to do is to avoid going out. But if you must travel, be sure to adopt safe travel methods. This will help you prevent possible loss of life. Moreover, you are going to prevent possible injuries that could be caused when driving in rain.