Wet Weather Driving Tips near Dothan, AL

Wet Weather Driving Tips near Dothan, AL

From light sprinkles to heavy downpours, rain can make driving far more stressful than it ought to be. So, to help you feel confident no matter what the conditions outside are like, Gilland Ford is here to provide you with some tips for driving in wet weather. In addition to maintaining your vehicle, it’s also important to know how to change your habits behind the wheel when Mother Nature throws you a curveball.

Slow Down, Stay Back

One of the easiest ways to get through a rainy evening commute with peace of mind is to drive slow and keep your distance from those around you. Since water on the pavement reduces the amount of friction your tires maintain, your chances of sliding and skidding increase, especially if you don’t take the proper precautions. By traveling at a moderate rate and applying stopping power more gradually, you’ll lessen your chances of losing control. Furthermore, it’s essential to minimize distractions and keep your focus on the road ahead, so avoid fiddling with the radio dial when traveling in the middle of a storm.

How to Handle Hydroplaning

Even if you follow the advice above, you could still experience hydroplaning, so we’re here to explain what to do when this occurs. Essentially, this usually happens within the first ten or so minutes of a shower when the water mixes with oil and other surface contaminants on the pavement. When this ultra-slick mixture gets between your tires and the road, you could find yourself sliding completely out of control, so it’s vital to stay calm. Instead of slamming on the brakes or jerking the steering wheel, let your foot off the gas, stay straight, and coast until you’ve slowed down. At this point, you should be able to regain command over your ride without incident.

Routine Maintenance

Although driver input is the most important factor, it still helps to have a well-maintained vehicle by your side when the conditions are wet. First and foremost, your tires need to have enough tread to grip the pavement, so stop by the Service Department if you haven’t had the rotated in a while. Of course, if we determine that you’ll be better off with new parts, we’ll provide you with a brand-new set from our Tire Center! In addition, you can have us replace your windshield wipers if they’re failing to keep your view of the road clear and unobstructed.