Florida is famous for having very unpredictable weather. One minute you're driving in the sunshine, and the next there’s a downpour that seems like the end of the world, only to clear up quickly and leave you with a sunny but very wet road to drive through. And so, driving in the rain can be challenging, especially if you are not used to it. To help you stay safe on the road, here are some tips for driving in the rain:
What to do When Driving in the Rain
One of the most important things to remember when driving in the rain is to slow down. Wet roads can be slippery, which can make it harder to control your vehicle. By reducing your speed, you can give yourself more time to react to any potential hazards.
It is a good idea to turn on your headlights when driving in the rain, even during the day. This will help other drivers see you more easily, which can help prevent accidents. Visibility can make the difference in stopping an accident before it happens, so make sure drivers can see you.
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Increase your following distance:
The increased distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you is known as your "following distance." In the rain, it is important to increase your following distance to give yourself more time to stop if necessary. The difference between a small accident and a catastrophe can be a matter of milliseconds, and a safe distance can ensure you have enough time to react.
Puddles on the road can be more than just a nuisance; they can also be dangerous. If you have to drive in the rain, try to avoid puddles as much as possible because they can hide potholes and other dangers. This is also why slowing down is so important.
Finally, it is important to stay alert when driving in the rain. Keep an eye on the road and be prepared to react to any potential hazards. That means putting down the phone, turning down the car speaker volume, and keeping hands and eyes solely focused on driving, just in case.
There, now you’re prepared to tackle the next rainy day on Florida's streets and highways. It’s always important to prepare for changing weather conditions while driving at these latitudes, so take these steps to heart; they’ll make sure you stay safe on the road, even when driving in the rain.
And don't forget: if you are driving in Florida, it is important to make sure your auto tags are up-to-date. You can renew your tags online, by mail, or in person at a local tax collector's office, or you can have Auto Tags of Florida do the deed for you through our tagging services.
