While it is best to avoid driving during a storm with heavy rain, you may run into a situation where you are already on the road when rain turns to a downpour.
If this happens to you, Top Driver explains there are a few key things you will want to do to avoid an accident and to prevent putting yourself in harm’s way due to the reduced visibility.
Reduce speed
You should automatically slow down once heavy rain starts. This helps in a variety of ways. It will enable you to better react if something occurs since your visibility is not as good. It also will give your tires more traction and help you to avoid hydroplaning.
Increase following distance
You also want to back away from the vehicle in front of you. Allow more space for reaction time. You never know what someone else may do, and since it is hard to see, you need to have more time to react if the vehicle in front of you suddenly stops.
Turn on headlights
Since visibility is one of the biggest risks in a downpour, you need to ensure other vehicles can more easily see you. The best way to do this is to turn on your headlights. You need to turn them completely on. Do not just turn on your parking lights or rely on your daytime running lights.
Pull over safely
If it is too bad and you do not feel safe continuing on, you should find a safe place to pull off the road. Make sure you can completely pull off the roadway. Never stop in the road. Other drivers may not see you and it could lead to an accident. Pull off the road and turn on your hazard lights.