Driving in the rain : the right reflexes to ride safely

Driving in the rain is a challenge for drivers. Rain not only changes the quality of the road but also visibility, increasing the risk of accidents. Did you know that road accidents are twice as frequent in the rain than in dry weather ?

It is therefore important to understand the dangers and adopt the right reflexes to ride safely in the rain. This article guides you through the steps you should take before and during your trips in the rain to ensure your safety and that of other road users.

Understand the dangers of driving in the rain

Reduced visibility

One of the main risks associated with driving in rain is reduced visibility. Rain can affect the view, especially if it is accompanied by fog on windows or splashes from nearby vehicles. The reaction time is therefore reduced, making it difficult to anticipate hazards. In addition, road signs and floor markings may be less visible, increasing the risk of road misperception.

Risk of aquaplaning

Aquaplaning occurs when the vehicle tires lose contact with the road, sliding on a film of water. This is mainly the case when the road surface is saturated with water and the tires are not able to evacuate it sufficiently. This is particularly dangerous because it can cause the vehicle to lose control. The consequences of aquaplaning can be dramatic, hence the importance of driving with caution when roads are wet.

Lengthening of braking distances

In the rain, braking distances in the rain are longer. Wet road reduces tyre grip, which prevents rapid deceleration. Sudden braking can cause loss of control, especially at high speed. It is therefore essential to allow more time to stop your vehicle and adopt a progressive braking system.

Get your car ready to drive in the rain

Checking the tires

Before you hit the road in the rain, it is important to check your rain tires. These tires are specially designed to provide better grip on wet roads. Ensure that the tread depth is sufficient to prevent aquaplaning. Worn tires, even if they still look good on the road surface, can seriously compromise your safety.

Wiper blades and screenwash tank check

Wiper blades must be in good working condition to ensure maximum visibility in the event of rain. Check their condition before leaving and replace them if necessary. Also, make sure your screenwash tank is sufficiently full. An empty tank could compromise your efforts to keep the windows clean in heavy rain.

Lighting

Weather conditions reduce visibility, so it is important to check your headlights and position lights for proper operation. This not only allows you to be seen better by other drivers, but also to see the road better. In heavy rain, remember to use low beam lights or, in some cases, fog lights to optimize your visibility.

Defogging system

Your vehicle’s defogging system is essential when driving in the rain. Humidity in the air and the temperature difference between inside and outside of the vehicle can cause your windows to fog up. To maintain good visibility, use the defogger effectively, either by turning on the air conditioning or by directing hot air to the windows.

Good driving reflexes in the rain

Adapt the speed

One of the most important reflexes for riding safely in the rain is to adapt your speed to the weather. In the rain, it is essential to drive slower to gain control of your vehicle and have more time to react. Wet roads increase the risk of slipping, especially if the speed is too high. Feel free to slow down, even if the other vehicles seem fast.

Concentration and anticipation

Rain can create a stressful environment on the road, but staying focused is essential. Avoid any distractions, whether it is the use of the phone or a lively discussion. Keep in mind that you will need more time to react to unexpected events, such as sudden braking by another vehicle or an obstacle on the road.

Progressive braking

Braking in the rain shall be progressive. Avoid sudden braking, as this could cause the vehicle to lose control, especially if you have worn tires or the road is particularly slippery. Use a light and early braking to avoid wheel jamming.

Use of lamps

Using the lights in the rain is important to ensuring your visibility. In heavy rain or thunderstorms, it is essential to turn on the low beam lights so that other drivers can see you. If visibility is extremely low, you can also use fog lights, which provide better illumination of the road near the ground and reduce glare.

How to react in case of aquaplaning ?

Identify signs of aquaplaning

When you lose control of your vehicle due to aquaplaning, it is important to know how to identify the signs. You may feel the steering becomes lighter, the tyre noise changes or your car starts to slide without responding to your commands.

What to do in case of aquaplaning ?

Don’t panic and follow these steps to regain control of your vehicle :

• Release the accelerator without brushing the movement.
• Do not brake suddenly, it could make the loss of control worse.
• Turn the steering wheel slightly in the desired direction to restore grip.
• Once the tires have returned to the road, you can start braking gently.

Extra precautions to be taken during thunderstorms or heavy rains

Risk of flooding

During heavy rains or thunderstorms, roads can quickly become flooded. In this case, it is advisable not to drive if this is preventable. If you are already on the road and you find yourself in flooded areas, it is best to turn around and look for an alternative path. Do not attempt to cross flooded roads, even if they don’t seem to be deeply submerged.

Warning signs of heavy rain

Warning signs of heavy rain can help you anticipate driving conditions. If you notice threatening clouds, lightning or a sudden drop in temperature, be prepared to adapt your driving. If the rain starts to fall hard, immediately reduce your speed and increase your safety distance.

In short, driving in the rain requires some adjustments to your behaviour and preparation. Make sure your car is weather-ready by checking the tires, windshield wipers and lights. Adapt your driving by reducing speed, paying particular attention to the road and respecting safety distances.

In case of aquaplaning or heavy rain, stay calm and follow good practices. Remember that caution is required when driving in the rain to avoid accidents and ensure your safety and that of other road users.