As a trucker, there’s nothing more frustrating than having to deal with bad weather conditions while on the road like driving with rain. But let’s be honest, rain is inevitable and it’s going to happen — weather– we like it or not – pun intended.
When rain does begin to downpour, it’s important to have some truck driving hacks hidden up your sleeve to make your journey as safe and comfortable as possible. Rain can be extremely dangerous to drive in. Not only does it reduce your visibility; it can make your tires lose traction, too. That’s why we’re sharing these five helpful hacks for driving your rig on a rainy day.
Avoid slipping by slowing down, but not too much
The first rule of driving in the rain is to slow down. But be mindful of other drivers who may not be as cautious. On the flip side, if you slow down too much, you’ll just cause more trouble for yourself and other drivers on the road.
A common rule of thumb is to take about 5mph off of your speed depending on the severity of the rain. Really, the key here is to maintain a safe and steady speed to maintain better control over your rig. You need to be able to respond quickly if weather-related accidents occur or if you suddenly lose traction of your truck.
Use your low beams in the rain
Using your high beams in the rain is not only dangerous, but it can also make it harder for you to see the road ahead as well. That’s because light reflects off of the water droplets creating a bright shine, or glare, that’s hard to see past. Instead, switch to your low beams and increase your visibility. This will make it easier for you to spot any potential hazards and help you react to changing road conditions.
Keep a safe distance on slick roads
Rain can make the road slick and reduce your visibility, so it’s important to keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. This will give you enough time to drive defensively by reacting to any sudden stops or turns. The general rule of thumb is to maintain a minimum of eight seconds behind the vehicle in front of you.
Be sure your windshield wipers work — and use them
Your windshield wipers are one of your best tools when driving in the rain. Make sure they’re in good working condition and use them often to clear your windshield of rain and road spray. If they’re worn out, replace them as soon as possible. This will not only improve your visibility, but it will also help you avoid any potential accidents.
Know when it’s time to pull over
Don’t be a hero. If the rain is too heavy, or the visibility is too poor, it’s always best to pull over and wait it out. It’s better to arrive late than not at all. Don’t risk your life or the lives of others on the road. Avoid any accidents by finding a safe place to park and waiting for the weather to improve.
Driving in the rain can be challenging
No one said driving in nasty weather was easy. Always remember to slow down, use your low beams, keep a safe distance, use your windshield wipers, and know when to pull over. By following these five helpful trucking hacks, you’ll be able to handle it like a pro. It’s time to hit the road like a pro!
