Wet Driving 101

As PAGASA declares the start of the rainy season, we almost completely know of what to expect. As what we experienced two weeks ago, Typhoon Dante reminded us of the poor drainage that Metro Cebu has in some areas. 

So what can we do to stay safe while driving in wet weather? Most of us are used to driving in the rain, thanks to our frequent showers throughout the year. However, driving through floods is a completely different thing. If it rains for days at a stretch, we also need to be extra cautious as some roads become ridden with potholes.

But how do drive safely in the wet? How do we ensure that our car is in tip top shape for the rainy season?

Firstly, you must first make sure that all your car's tires are in good condition. By that, I mean, tires must still have adequate tread. Check on the net on how to measure tire tread or go to your nearest tire service center and have all tires checked. If they are worn, do not hesitate to change these as tires play a big factor in safety, especially in the rain.

Do not forget the routine maintenance checks like tire pressures. Grip deteriorates more in the wet and tires that are either over- or under-inflated have compromised grip.

Secondly, reduce speed while driving in the wet. Even a vehicle with perfectly good tires can still loose grip at any given speed above the capability of the tires and the suspension.   Aquaplaning is also your worst enemy in driving in the wet. This is when your tires momentarily float over a pool of standing water at certain speeds. When this happens, you lose braking and steering control or maneuverability. As much as you can, stay clear of puddles as far as possible, or slow down. If you can’t avoid it and you hit a puddle at above normal speeds, prepare yourself for a momentary wiggle. Prepare for counter action. Often, drivers caught unaware panic and make the situation worse. It’s best to just slow down and be extra cautious during wet conditions, especially in merging lanes or intersections.

Roads are made to incline to the sides to let water flow to the drainage, which is almost always along the sidewalk. This means there is less puddles in the middle lane. It would be wiser to be in this spot during a heavy downpour to avoid the standing water. 

Thirdly, keep in mind when following a vehicle during wet conditions. The car or cars in front of you can momentarily lose control. Aside from driving cautiously, keep a longer than usual distance from the vehicle in front when driving in wet conditions. This way, it’ll be easier to take evasive action when needed.

One commonly forgets my second to the last tip which is the maintenance of the features given to the car for wet driving. The maintenance or replacements of these things that are almost always forgotten. Things like wipers, wiper washers, park lights bulbs, headlight bulbs, fog lamps, even fender liners. 

I’ll start with wipers as this is a pretty common issue. These strips of rubber deteriorate quickly in our tropical climate and is usually missed only when rain comes and you realize that their busted. Wipers are inexpensive, so it’s better to check them every time you change your oils. Also remember to top-up the windshield washer reservoir, preferably with windshield cleaning shampoo.

Fender liners, the plastic or rubber panels underneath the fenders that protects the wires, headlights, and other electronics from getting wet or dirty, is an unappreciated part. These liners are usually removed giving way to corrosion under the fender, damaging sensor, wires and lights. I’ve fixed a lot of cars that refused to start with busted sensors that were exposed to the elements due to the absence of a fender liner.

Finally, DO NOT drive with the hazard lights on during heavy rain. Instead, turn on your headlights. This will improve your visibility all round and will be easy for others to spot you.