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Ten Tips For Fall Driving

Depending on where you live, fall can bring more rain and wind storms. Drivers may be more likely to encounter standing water or debris in the roadway, which can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicle. There are some simple steps and tips that drivers can follow to prepare for wet driving conditions.

Below are ten tips to help you prepare for fall driving:

  1. Reduce Your Speed. The speed limit is not the speed you should drive when roads are wet. Drivers should drive at a speed that is safe in light of the amount of rainfall and cars on the road. Drivers driving too fast in wet conditions or not leaving enough space between their vehicle and the vehicle in front of them cause too many accidents.
  2. Turn On Headlights. Visibility is key when conditions are bad. Even if your car has daylight running lights, keep your headlights on at all times when it is raining or wet.
  3. Check or Replace Your Wiper Blades. Depending on the amount you drive, wiper blades normally need to be replaced on at least an annual basis. Make sure to purchase and install new wiper blades on your car prior to the next rainstorm.
  4. Check or Replace Your Tires. Good tire traction is vital especially in wet conditions. Make sure your tires have adequate tread. Poor tire tread can leave you more likely to lose control of your vehicle and be in an accident.
  5. Use Your Brakes Normally. Most new cars are equipped with anti-lock braking systems. Drivers should brake normally with anti–lock brakes. The anti–lock system is designed to bring the vehicle to a halt without skidding. Drivers should only pump their bakes if their car does not have anti–lock brakes.
  6. Drive In The Middle Lanes. Most roads are elevated or crowned in the middle, causing water to collect on the sides of the roadway. Standing water can cause cars to hydroplane so it is best to drive in middle lanes away from the sides, when possible.
  7. Drive In The Tracks Of Other Cars. Cars driving in front of you displace water on the roadway. Following in their tracks provides a relatively drier surface.
  8. Drive Extra Careful In Congested Areas. Intersections, freeway on and off ramps, and parking lots get slicker in the rain, as low speed areas are more likely to accumulate road oil.
  9. Use Extra Caution After Dry Stretches. Wet roads can be particularly perilous after stretches of time without rain. Some places go weeks or months without rain. The accumulation of oil and grime can become very slick and dangerous after fresh rainfall.
  10. Use Studded Tires Cautiously. Many states allow vehicles to use studded tires seasonally. Typically this may start November 1 and last into April. Studded tires work great in snow and icy conditions, however, do not fare as well in wet conditions. Studs do not allow your car to handle as well in wet or dry pavement. Drivers may want to defer using studded tires until warranted in extreme conditions.

These precautions can help you drive more safely in wet conditions. Not only are they safety smart, they are also a prudent financial move. Safe driving is a key factor in keeping car insurance rates low, which can save you a lot of money over time.