It starts with a few innocent raindrops on your windshield. At first, you might not even bother to turn on the wipers. But as dark skies roll in and thunder rumbles, you realize this is just the beginning.
Before long, your car is bombarded with a rapid downpour, turning your windshield into a blurry barrier while the wipers struggle to keep up. Caught in a deluge on the highway can be a daunting experience, even for the most skilled drivers. Beyond the anxiety, heavy rain significantly increases the risk of hydroplaning.
How to Drive Safely in Heavy Rain: Six Essential Tips
- Take Extra Precautions
Slow down and observe the three-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. Choose a landmark the car in front just passed, then count to three before reaching it yourself. This is crucial, especially when following large vehicles like trucks, as their tires can spray water that limits your visibility. - Maintain Visibility
Turn on your headlights whenever visibility is compromised. This not only helps you see better but also makes it easier for others to see you. In particularly poor conditions, don’t hesitate to activate your four-way flashers. - Stick to Paved Surfaces
Avoid driving off-road during wet conditions, as mud and debris can diminish your tires’ traction. Stay clear of puddles or open-water areas—what looks shallow could be much deeper than you think. - Stay in Your Vehicle During Lightning Storms
If conditions worsen while driving, or if your car breaks down, stay inside your vehicle. Your car offers insulation from lightning strikes, providing you with a layer of protection that you won’t have standing outside. - Avoid Flooded Areas
Just 12 inches of rushing water can sweep away most cars, and two feet can carry off SUVs and trucks. In fact, over half of all flood-related drownings happen when vehicles enter floodwaters, according to the CDC. If you’re questioning whether it’s safe to drive through a flooded area, the answer is likely no. - Stay Home if Possible
Sometimes, the best safety measure is to stay put. If heavy rain is in the forecast and travel isn’t essential, consider waiting it out.
Despite taking every precaution, accidents can still occur in rainy conditions. That’s why having the right auto insurance coverage is crucial.
Get the Right Coverage, Rain or Shine
At Holley Insurance, we’re here to help you find the right auto insurance coverage to protect you in any weather. Don’t wait for the storm to hit—Contact us here to start your proposal. Stay safe out there!
A little more about Holley Insurance…
Holley Insurance was founded in 2000, and retains a core base of loyal clients. We have locations in Roanoke, Rocky Mount, and Forest, VA. As an independent insurance agency, Holley Insurance represents a carefully selected group of financially strong, reputable insurance companies. Therefore, we are able to offer you the best coverage at the most competitive price. Holley Insurance was named “Top Insurance Broker in Southwest Virginia” by Virginia Living Magazine. If you’re interested in starting a quote online or having us take a look at your current policies, click here!