Blog

Tips for Driving during the Rainy Season

April showers bring May flowers – however, they can also bring dangerous road conditions. The rainy season is here and being prepared and aware while driving in wet weather can save you from expensive damage. Come rain or shine, a safe driver is always prepared for whatever may lay ahead. Driving with Hilltop Tire Service’s wet weather safety tips will help to keep you and your family safe while on the road this rainy season.

• 1.) Be prepared. Is your vehicle ready for the rainy season? Make sure your windshield wipers and lights are in good working order and you have enough tread on your tires to stop when it’s raining. Stop by Hilltop Tire Service today for a FREE Spring Check-up and get peace of mind that your vehicle is safe.
• 2.) Slow down.It’s important to slow down as soon as it starts to rain, making sure to maintain a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. Rain mixed with the grease, oil, and dirt on the road can cause extremely slippery road conditions.
• 3.) Turn on your lights. Not only will your headlights help you to see the road, but they will also help other drivers see you.
• 4.) Don’t use your brakes. If you feel your car start to skid or hydroplane, don’t panic. Ease your foot off the gas, keeping both hands firmly on the steering wheel and steer in the direction you want your car to go until it regains traction.
• 5.) Avoid driving through puddles. It’s hard to judge the actual depth of puddles and if it’s too deep, it could damage the electrical system in your vehicle.
• 6.) Be alert. If you’re tired, stop and grab a drink at a convenience store or pull over in a safe place for a short rest.
• 7.) Use extra caution at night. While driving at night in the rain it is even more important to drive slowly. Avoid using your high beams. They could blind other drivers resulting in a collision.
• 8.) Don’t follow large trucks or buses. The spray from larger vehicles will make it more difficult to see.
• 9.) Do not use Cruise Control. Driving while it’s raining requires your full attention. Using cruise control can cause you to lose control of your vehicle especially if you start to hydroplane.
• 10.) Avoid Off-Roading. Dirt mixed with rain quickly becomes mud and you could get stuck, even in an SUV.

Start this rainy season off right with a trip to Hilltop Tire Service. Our experts will ensure your vehicle is running at peak performance and ready to take on whatever wet weather this Spring has in store for us. Be rainy day (or night) ready and stay safe. See you soon!