Although the reality surprises many people, yes, rain is indeed a serious driving hazard. While it may seem less threatening compared to snow or ice, rain significantly increases the risk of accidents. As a result, it’s important for motorists to understand why rain is dangerous and how they can work to mitigate the risks that rain inspires.
For example, rain buildup can cause water to become trapped between the road and a vehicle’s tires. When this happens – and the affected tires lose traction with the road – the vehicle can skid or slide. This is known as hydroplaning. Hydroplaning can result in loss of control of a vehicle, potentially leading to any number of crash scenarios, especially when motorists are traveling at significant speeds.
Additional concerns
Rainfall can dramatically reduce visibility for drivers. Heavy rain can obscure vision through the windshield, even with wipers at full speed. Additionally, rain can create glare from headlights and streetlights, further impairing a driver’s ability to see the road clearly.
Wet roads also mean that stopping distances naturally increase. Drivers need to allow more space between their vehicle and those in front of them to account for reduced traction and longer stopping time.
What can be done?
If you’re behind the wheel and it starts to rain, reducing your speed will give you more time to react to potential hazards and decrease the likelihood of hydroplaning. Adjust your speed according to the intensity of the rain and road conditions while maintaining a greater distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you to allow more time for stopping. You’ll also want to turn on your headlights. However, you’ll want to avoid using high beams as they can reflect off the rain and create glare.
Rain is a serious driving hazard that can significantly increase the risk of accidents. By keeping this in mind – and reacting accordingly – you can stay safer when it starts to pour.