How To Drive In Inclement Weather

Find out some great saftey tips on how to drive in inclement weather.

Operating a motor vehicle in bad weather is difficult at best. Whether you are dealing with unsafe road conditions, poor visibility, heavy precipitation or all of the above, knowing how to handle your car safely in such situations will most certainly help to make your travels safe ones.

New York Auto Insurance has compiled the following “rules of the road” for driving in inclement weather. Even if you all you see today are blue skies and sunshine, preparing for the inevitability of a stormy forecast is crucial for your safety as well as those around you.

Take It Easy

Whether it is February and the road is snow and ice-covered or slick from a July rainstorm, the easiest way to drive more safely is to simply slow down. Allowing for the time and distance to stop your vehicle safely is imperative in such conditions. Taking it easy on the road will also allow you be more observant in regards to what is going on around you.

Use Your Headlights

If you need to use your windshield wipers, you should definitely use your headlights. Rainy weather can lead to poor visibility so your headlights will not only light your way but will also allow other drivers to see you.

If it is foggy outside, using your fog lights or your low-beams will make seeing the road in front of you a bit easier.

Other Rules Of The Road

Rain-soaked roads are dangerous roads, so if you ever begin to hydroplane (skidding on standing water covering the road) resist the urge to apply your break or turn the steering wheel. Just allow your vehicle to decelerate on it’s own until you are able to gain control safely. (The same principal should be applied to snow and ice covered roads.)

In fog, you are more likely to hear what is happening before you are able to see it, so keep distractions to a minimum. Cracking a window a bit will not only keep your windshield from getting cloudy but will also allow you to keep better tabs on the road. 

When driving in snowy weather, be sure to clear your vehicle of all snow and ice before getting behind the wheel. Don’t forget to clean off your headlights and side view mirrors so that you are able to operate your car more safely. Drive slowly and avoid any sudden stops. And remember – if the weather conditions are really poor, stop someplace safe and continue your travels when the weather has improved.