Safety Moment
Driving in wet weather conditions can be dangerous. Car breakdowns always increase during periods of wet weather, and driving in severe rain and high water can cause extreme damage to your car and yourself.
Some car breakdowns occur during periods of wet weather as the damp causes problems with engines and electrical systems, particularly in older vehicles. Many rain-related breakdowns are easily avoidable as they are often caused by people driving through deep standing water. While cars have improved significantly in technical terms in recent years, they are still not waterproof and will break down if they are driven through deep water. When a car is submerged, water is sucked into the engine, causing catastrophic failure.
The engine will lock up and extensive damage to important components like piston connecting rods and valves can occur, which can be extremely expensive. A new engine would have to be fitted, but what people don’t understand is that the owner likely has to foot the expensive bill unless they can demonstrate to their insurer that it was not their actions that caused the damage.
If possible, avoid driving during heavy rain or stormy weather completely. Take a moment to assess the situation and severity of the conditions.
Hydroplaning is a buildup of water between the road surface and your tires causing them to lose contact with the road surface completely. If this happens and you lose control of your vehicle, don’t panic. Stay calm. Don’t make sudden motions and wait for the skid to stop. If it doesn’t stop immediately, ease your foot off the gas and steer in the direction you want the car to go. Be safe, slow down!
The best way to avoid getting into in accident if you intend to drive in the rain is to be safe and slow down. Be sure to drive at or below the speed limit to the extent that you are comfortable with and can see far enough in front of you to appropriately make driving decisions.
Here are some tips to avoid getting into an accident if you are driving in the rain:
The following tips should always be followed when driving in flooded conditions:
After leaving flood water, test your brakes. If your engine cuts out after driving through deep water, DO NOT attempt to restart as engine damage may occur. Instead, call for assistance and have the vehicle professionally examined.