Driving in the Rain

7 Tips for Driving in the Rain in Manassas, VA

In a perfect world, you could stay home when it’s raining, but that’s not always possible. Driving in the rain is sometimes necessary, but it doesn’t have to be doom and gloom. By following tips for driving in rainy conditions in Manassas, VA, you can get to your destination safely and without incident.

1. Check Your Car

Give your car a once-over before driving in rainy conditions. Test the brakes and lights to ensure they’re in good working condition and get the necessary repairs before hitting the road.

Then, evaluate the tires, starting with a visual inspection. Check for cracks, bulges, uneven wear patterns, and other signs you need to replace your tires.

Finally, check the tread depth by inserting a penny between the tread of each tire. You shouldn’t be able to see the top of Lincoln’s head after placing a penny upside down between the treads. If you can, your tires are worn and need replacing before driving in the rain.

2. Lower Your Speed

You can reduce the risk of an accident by slowing down when driving in rainy conditions. It’s easier for tires to maintain traction when moving at slower speeds, so cut your speed by one-third or more.

Most drivers will also slow down, but you might encounter some speeders. Keep an eye on your blind spot to be aware of approaching cars. This is simple when driving a 2024 Toyota RAV4 or another vehicle with a blind-spot monitor.

3. Eliminate Distractions

It takes longer to come to a complete stop when driving on wet roads, and slamming on your brakes can cause your car to hydroplane. Thus, distractions are especially dangerous when driving in rainy conditions.

Don’t use your phone, change the radio station, or engage in other activities that cause distractions. Also, a 2024 Camry Hybrid or another car with the available head-up display can help you stay focused.

With a head-up display, driving directions and other important information appear on the windshield, directly in your line of vision. That way, you don’t have to turn your head from the road for even a second.

4. Ease Into Stops and Turns

Don’t take quick actions like sharp turns when driving in the rain in Manasses, VA. Apply your brakes slowly when stopping to account for the longer stop time. Also, give yourself ample time and room to make turns. Your tires could lose contact with the road when turning sharply, but you can protect against that by taking a slow and steady approach to driving.

5. Increase Following Distance

You should maintain a following distance of three to four seconds under normal conditions. Double the normal following distance when driving in the rain, though. The extra time comes in handy when someone comes to a sudden stop or quickly changes lanes in rainy conditions.

6. Don’t Switch Lanes Unless Necessary

If you’ve driven in the snow, you’re familiar with the tracks cars make in the lanes. Your tires have better traction when driving through tracks than in fresh snow. The same is true when driving in the rain in Manassas, VA. Tires create tracks by removing some of the water from the road. Staying in these tracks can help you maintain control of your car and avoid hydroplaning.

When switching lanes, your tires will leave those tracks, and you might lose control of the vehicle. If you absolutely have to switch lanes, go slowly and ease into the next lane as a precaution. Remain slow and steady while your car adapts to the new lane.

7. Don’t Drive Through Standing Water

Water from heavy downpours fills potholes and floods roads. If you drive through flooded areas, the water can damage your car, making the brakes less effective. Tap your brakes after leaving puddles or flooded roads that can’t be avoided.

Tackle Rainy Conditions With a New Toyota

The car you drive plays a vital role in keeping you safe when driving in the rain. Visit Miller Toyota in Manassas, VA, to browse new and used cars loaded with features for rainy conditions. With blind-spot monitors, head-up displays, and other features, you’ll be ready to tackle any conditions you encounter in Manassas and beyond.