Police Offer 10 Rainy Day Driving Tips

From Newark Police

The Newark Police Department offers the following suggestions for safer driving in wet weather.

In stormy conditions, it is more difficult to see other vehicles, road signs and the road itself. It is critical to make sure you can see and be seen.

1. First and foremost: slow down! It takes longer to stop or adjust in wet weather.
2. Stay toward the middle lanes - water tends to pool in the outside lanes.
3. Maintain proper following distance (3 Second Rule). This needs to be increased in wet weather.
4. Drive in the tracks of a car ahead of you.
5. Don't follow large trucks or busses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.
6. Be more alert when driving in wet or slippery conditions. Watch out for brake lights in front of you.
7. Avoid using your brakes; if possible, take your foot off the accelerator to slow down.
8. Turn your headlights on even in a light rain, or in gloomy, foggy or overcast conditions. Not only do they help you see the road, but they'll help other drivers see you. Plus it’s the law. When you activate your wipers you need to have your vehicle lights on! If your car has daytime running lights you still should put them on, so vehicles behind you can see you better.
9. Never drive through moving water if you can't see the ground through it; your car could be swept off the road.
10. When driving through a puddle of uncertain depth, go slow. If it's deeper than the bottom of your doors.

The bottom line… Slow down! This should be obvious but it also very important. People are so used to driving certain speeds on certain roads that sometimes they forget the need to slow down when inclement weather presents itself.

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