Ace Hi Oil

OUR BLOG

How to Be Safe When Driving in the Rain

Driving in the rain is one of many weather-related challenges you can encounter on the road. In this post by AMSOIL: Ace Hi Oil in Southlake, TX, we’ll cover a few ways to keep you safe when you drive in the rain.

When driving in the rain, it’s essential to keep your car up to date on its maintenance. Products like AMSOIL’s Signature Series 0W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil can help you do just that. Call Ace Hi Oil at (817) 431-6664 for advice from their oil pros on the best products for your engine, or place an order in their online store 24/7.

Maintaining Your Vehicle

Maintaining your vehicle in the best shape possible is the best way to ensure safe drives through rainy and wet roads. There are two essential car parts you should check on before the rainy season starts. These are your car´s tires and its windshield wipers.

Wipers: Your vehicle’s windshield wipers are essential to providing you with visibility on the road. Unfortunately, wipers tend to dry out after a few months of exposure to the sun, so you should check them to ensure they’ll wipe away the rain when necessary.
Tires: Secondly, but no less critical, check your tires to ensure that you’re safe on the road. Check their treads to make sure they’ll grip the road properly, even when wet. Having too shallow treads can cause your car to aquaplane and lose grip on the road. This can be extremely dangerous so checking your treads is essential.

Having a regular maintenance routine can help you keep an eye on these aspects and many others to help you stay safe on the road.

Assess the Risk of Going Out

Staying safe when driving in the rain is all about risk assessment. Depending on how hard it’s raining and how urgent your errands are, you can decide whether it’s best to stay home or go out, taking certain precautions. That being said, if it’s really coming down, it’s a good idea to reschedule plans and stay safely inside.

Follow These Tips When Driving in the Rain

If you decide to go out, even when it’s raining, here are some tips to keep in mind and keep you safe.

Drive Slower Than the Speed Limit

Speed limits are set for the ideal road conditions, but a rainy and wet road is far from ideal. That’s why it’s best to drive slower than the speed limit when it's raining out. The best way to avoid speeding is to leave for your destination with enough time to get there safely. Avoid driving quickly on a slippery road as it can be hazardous for you and other drivers.

Handling rainy conditions is easier when your car is in good condition. Call Ace Hi Oil at (817) 431-6664 and ask one of their oil pros about the best products for your engine. Once you’re ready to place an order, visit AMSOIL’s online store.

Turn On Your Headlights

Your car’s lights are another essential part of keeping you and others safe when it’s raining. Your headlights will make you more visible to oncoming traffic. Even if it’s not too dark when you’re driving, turn on your headlights to help you spot obstacles you otherwise might miss. Also, use your turn signals with enough time to let other drivers know your next move, and use your hazard lights if you spot something that could put you or other drivers at risk.

Leave Space in Between Cars

Leaving space between cars is always essential, but it becomes much more important while driving in the rain. Having space in between you and other vehicles is the best way to avoid a car crash caused by slippery roads. Space also allows you to maneuver better and stop with enough space if necessary. When driving in the rain, keep an eye on your blind spots when changing lanes and turning, as other drivers need more time to adjust.

Avoid Driving Into Water

Last but not least, a common hazard when driving in the rain is standing water. It might not seem like a big deal, but it’s sometimes hard to gauge how deep standing water is or if any potholes under it could damage your car. Either way, keep clear from it and avoid unnecessary danger.