Car Safety Tips During Rainy Season

Its not often Davao is hit with heavy rains, but last month and early this July there seem to be occasional rain here and there. Rain is blamed for thousands of accidents each year, and wet roads are one of the most hazardous driving conditions as they can lead to skidding or slipping, causing vehicle damage, injury, and even death.

I found some good tips that can make your driving safer during rainy weather conditions.

• CHECK YOUR TIRES REGULARLY. Make sure you keep your tires properly inflated (check the air pressure at least once a month), as well as the tread depth to prevent skids. For a quick check, insert a 5 peso coin into your tire tread right side up. As long as the wavy line at the bottom edge of the coin is not exposed, your tire treads still have adequate grip for safe driving.
• SLOW DOWN. Driving at a slower pace allows more of the tire's tread to remain in contact with the road, which leads to better traction.
• KNOW HOW TO RECOVER FROM A SKID. Don't slam on the brakes, instead, apply firm, steady pressure to the brakes and steer the car in the direction of the skid.
• KEEP DISTANCE. It takes about three times longer to brake on wet road than on dry road. Keep more than two car lengths between you and the vehicle in front of you.
• TURN YOUR HEADLIGHTS ON, EVEN IN LIGHT RAIN. Not only do they help you see the road better, they'll help other drivers see your car too.
• KNOW WHEN TO STOP. If the rains become too heavy, pull over and wait for the rain to ease up. Heavy rain can overload the wiper blades, decreasing visibility. Make sure to keep your headlights on and turn on your hazard warning lights to alert other drivers.