Safe driving skills in rainy and stormy season is a set of special knowledge, techniques and reflexes that vehicle operators need to master to ensure safety for themselves, passengers and other traffic participants in extreme weather conditions.
This article will provide you with useful information to improve your safe driving skills during the rainy season, including:
How to prepare before the trip.
Driving techniques in slippery road conditions and poor visibility.
How to handle emergency situations such as flooding or skidding.
Important notes when driving through steep mountain passes, highways or urban areas.
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According to statistics from the National Traffic Safety Committee, the number of traffic accidents during the rainy and stormy season is often 30-40% higher than in other seasons of the year.
Notably, a study by the University of Michigan Traffic Safety Research Institute found that 78% of accidents in bad weather conditions could be prevented if drivers were equipped with the proper knowledge and skills.
Therefore, mastering and properly applying safe driving skills during the rainy season is the responsibility of every driver, contributing to protecting their own lives and those around them. Let's take a look at the details!
Driving skills in the rainy season to ensure safety
Before Driving: What to Prepare for a Safe Trip During the Stormy Season?
Take the time to inspect your vehicle, plan your route, and prepare all necessary items before driving during the rainy season.
1. Check the vehicle thoroughly
Before starting the journey, the driver needs to perform a comprehensive check of important components such as tires, brake system, lights, wipers, drainage system, battery and electrical system.
Tyres: Check the tread, pressure and choose the right tyre for wet roads. Tyres with at least 4mm deep grooves will help drain water better, reducing the risk of hydroplaning. Tyre pressure should be maintained at the manufacturer's recommended level, which usually ranges from 30-35 PSI depending on the vehicle.
Brake system: Check the brake pads, brake fluid and anti-lock braking system (ABS). The brake pads should be at least 3mm thick, the brake fluid should be at the specified level and not discoloured. The ABS system should be working properly to avoid wheel lock-up when braking hard on slippery roads.
Lighting system: Make sure all lights (headlights, taillights, fog lights, turn signals) are working properly. Headlights should be bright enough (usually 700 to 1200 lumens) to improve visibility in stormy conditions.
Wipers and washer fluid: Check the wear of the wipers, make sure they wipe away rainwater without streaking. The washer fluid tank should be filled with a special solution that can clean the glass well in rainy conditions.
Vehicle drainage system: Check and clean the drainage pipes, especially the area under the vehicle and the sunroof (if equipped) to avoid water damage.
Check the battery and electrical system: Make sure the battery has adequate voltage (usually 12.4V to 12.7V with the engine off) and that the terminals are not corroded. Check the wires and fuses to ensure the electrical system operates properly in wet conditions.
2. Plan your route
Planning your journey carefully helps minimize risks and ensure safety during the rainy season. Drivers should take the following steps:
Keep an eye on the weather forecast: Use reputable weather forecast apps to stay informed about weather conditions along your route. Pay attention to warnings of heavy rain, strong winds, or flash floods.
Choose a safe route: Prioritize high routes, avoid flooded areas.
Inform loved ones about your route: Share your travel plans, estimated time of arrival, and stops with family or friends. This makes it easy to contact and assist in an emergency.
Check traffic information: Check road conditions, traffic jams or incidents on the route you intend to travel. You can refer to information from official channels such as the website of the Vietnam Road Administration or reputable traffic fanpages.
Need a detailed itinerary plan
3. Prepare necessary items
List of items to prepare includes:
Raincoat, boots, flashlight: Prepare a good quality raincoat, waterproof rubber boots and a flashlight with spare batteries.
Power bank, drinking water, snacks: Power bank with at least 10000mAh capacity, enough drinking water for each person in the car (about 2 liters/person/day) and non-perishable dry foods.
Safe Driving Techniques in Rain and Storms
Driving in stormy conditions requires a high level of concentration and proper driving techniques. The four main factors to consider are: speed control, increased visibility, effective use of headlights, and vehicle control.
1. Speed adjustment
Proper speed control is the most important factor when driving in storms. Inappropriate speed is the main cause of 30% of traffic accidents in bad weather conditions.
Slow down, keep a safe distance: Slow down to about 10-20 km/h from your normal speed and maintain double the distance from the car in front. For example, if you usually keep a 3-second distance in normal conditions, increase it to 6 seconds when it's raining.
Maintain a steady speed, avoid sudden acceleration: Use cruise control if available to maintain a steady speed. Avoid sudden acceleration which can cause skidding on wet roads.
Drive slowly through flooded areas and slippery roads: Reduce speed to below 10 km/h when going through flooded areas to avoid hydrostatic shock. On slippery roads, a safe speed should be below 40 km/h.
2. Increase observation
Limited visibility in storms requires drivers to increase their observation of rearview mirrors, surrounding vehicles, signs, etc. to ensure safety.
Check your mirrors frequently: Check your mirrors every 5-8 seconds to get a sense of the traffic around you. Adjust your mirrors to minimize blind spots.
Watch out for motorbikes, pedestrians, and bicycles: These are easily obscured in the rain. Pay close attention to curbs, intersections, and pedestrian crossings.
Observe traffic signs and signals: Pay attention to flood and landslide warning signs. Pay extra attention to traffic lights, especially when visibility is limited.
Increase visibility when driving during the rainy season
3. Use efficient lighting
Using your headlights properly not only helps you see better, but also helps other vehicles easily recognize your vehicle's location.
Turn on low beams when it rains, limit the use of high beams: Use low beams in the rain to avoid dazzling oncoming vehicles. Only use high beams when necessary and for short periods of time.
Use fog lights when necessary: Turn on front fog lights when visibility is less than 100m. Rear fog lights should only be used when visibility is extremely limited, less than 50m. Turn off fog lights when not needed to avoid dazzling other drivers.
Turn on your turn signals when turning: Use your turn signals earlier than usual, at least 5 seconds before making a turn. This gives other vehicles enough time to see and react.
4. Vehicle control
Good vehicle control in stormy conditions requires high concentration and skillful driving skills. According to statistics, 22% of traffic accidents in stormy weather are caused by loss of vehicle control.
Keep a steady hand on the wheel, avoid sudden steering turns: Hold the steering wheel at the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock positions for the best control. Avoid sudden steering turns, instead adjust the direction of the vehicle slowly and gently.
Brake properly, avoid sudden braking: Use the “pump brake” technique (press and release the brake repeatedly) if the vehicle does not have ABS. If the vehicle has ABS, press the brake hard and hold. Keep the braking distance 3 times longer than normal conditions.
Overtake safely: Only overtake when absolutely necessary. When overtaking, accelerate slowly and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle being overtaken. Use your turn signals early and make sure you have enough space before returning to your lane.
Handling Dangerous Situations When Driving in the Rain
During stormy weather conditions, drivers may encounter a number of dangerous situations that require quick and accurate response. The three most common situations are flooded roads, slippery roads, and strong winds.
1. Flooded road
Flooded roads are one of the biggest dangers when driving in a storm. According to statistics, 75% of flood-related deaths occur when drivers attempt to drive through flooded roads.
Recognition and assessment: When encountering a flooded road, observe carefully to assess the level of flooding. If the water is too high (over half the wheel or up to the exhaust pipe), absolutely do not attempt to drive through. Find another route or stop the vehicle in a safe place to wait for the water to recede.
Drive safely: If the water is not too deep, drive through the flooded area at a slow and steady speed. Avoid sudden acceleration or sharp turns as this may cause water waves to enter the engine compartment. Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front to avoid collision.
What to do if your vehicle stalls: If your vehicle stalls due to water hammer, never attempt to restart the engine. This could cause serious damage to the engine. Turn off the engine, turn on your hazard lights, and call for help.
Preventing Hydroplaning: Hydroplaning occurs when a tire loses contact with the road surface due to rainwater forming a thin film between the tire and the road. To prevent this, reduce your speed, maintain proper tire pressure, and use tires with deep treads. If you hydroplaning occurs, ease off the accelerator gently, maintain a steady grip on the steering wheel, and do not brake suddenly.
Handling situations when driving through flooded roads
2. Slippery road
Slippery roads caused by rain are responsible for 30% of traffic accidents in bad weather conditions. Recognizing and handling slippery roads properly is an important skill for drivers.
Recognize the signs: Slippery roads often appear in areas with standing water, oil spills, or fallen leaves. Look at the road surface and feel the grip of your tires to recognize these signs.
Braking and steering techniques: On slippery roads, brake gently and steer slowly. Avoid sudden braking or steering as this may cause the vehicle to lose control.
Handling skids: If the vehicle skids (loses control), calmly release the accelerator and steer in the direction of the skid to regain balance. Do not brake suddenly and do not attempt to steer in the opposite direction of the skid.
3. Strong wind
Strong winds can pose many challenges for drivers, especially on bridges, highways or open areas. According to statistics, strong winds are responsible for 3-5% of traffic accidents in bad weather conditions.
Hold the wheel steady: When encountering strong winds, hold the wheel firmly to avoid being pushed off course by the wind. Increase your concentration and pay close attention to the road.
Avoid large vehicles: Strong winds can cause trucks or container trucks to overturn or lose control. Avoid driving near these vehicles to ensure safety.
Find shelter: If the wind is too strong, find a safe shelter such as a rest stop, gas station, or roadside house to wait for the wind to calm down.
Driving Safely Through Terrain During Stormy Weather
Driving through different terrains in stormy conditions requires special care and skill. The three common terrains to watch out for are mountain passes, highways, and urban roads.
1. Steep mountain pass
Driving on steep mountain passes in stormy weather is a big challenge, requiring high concentration and skillful driving skills. According to statistics, 15% of serious traffic accidents occur on steep mountain passes in bad weather conditions.
Slow down: Steep mountain passes often have dangerous curves and limited visibility. Slow down before entering a curve and watch out for oncoming traffic.
Use engine braking: Engine braking is a technique for reducing speed by shifting to a lower gear. This technique helps you control your speed better when going downhill, while also reducing the load on the braking system.
Pay attention: Observe traffic signs carefully, especially signs indicating speed, dangerous curves, and deep ravines. Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front and avoid overtaking when it is unsafe.
Note when driving on steep mountain passes
2. Highway
Driving on the highway in stormy conditions requires high concentration and strict adherence to safety rules. According to statistics, about 40% of highway accidents are related to bad weather conditions.
Keep your distance: On the highway, vehicles are usually traveling at higher speeds. Keep a larger safe distance from the vehicle in front to give yourself enough time to react in case of an accident.
Obey the law: Pay attention to traffic signs, drive in the correct lane, and at the prescribed speed. Avoid sudden lane changes and signal clearly when changing lanes.
Focus on driving: Avoid distractions such as using your phone, eating, or talking too much. Focus on the road and surrounding vehicles.
3. Urban roads
Driving in urban areas during storms requires extreme vigilance due to high traffic density and many complex factors. According to statistics, 70% of traffic accidents occur in urban areas, and this rate increases in bad weather conditions.
Pay attention to pedestrians and motorbikes: In urban areas, traffic density is high, pedestrians and motorbikes often move on the road. Please pay attention and give way to pedestrians and motorbikes.
Avoid Flood Spots: Know the frequent flood spots in the city to avoid traveling through these areas during heavy rains.
Slow down: Slow down at intersections, residential areas, schools, and other crowded areas.
Important Notes When Driving During Stormy Season
In addition to applying safe driving techniques, there are some other important notes that drivers need to remember when traveling during the rainy season such as: using support equipment, how to stop and park safely, and maintaining a calm mind.
1. Use assistive devices
Proper use of vehicle assistance devices can significantly increase safety when driving in adverse weather conditions.
Air conditioning and heating: Air conditioning and heating not only make you more comfortable, but also help clear the mist from your windshield, improving visibility. Turn on the windshield defroster or adjust the temperature accordingly to avoid fogging up your windshield.
Wipers and fog lights: Wipers must be working effectively to clear rain from the windshield. Fog lights help improve visibility in foggy or rainy conditions. Check and use these devices properly.
ABS and electronic stability control: Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) help prevent the wheels from locking up during hard braking, helping you maintain control of the vehicle. Electronic stability control (ESP) helps stabilize the vehicle when cornering or driving on slippery roads. If your vehicle is equipped with these systems, take advantage of them for added safety.
2. Safe parking
Choosing the right location and method of parking during the rainy season can help avoid many unnecessary risks.
Avoid parking under trees: Trees can fall or break branches during storms, posing a danger to your vehicle and its occupants. Avoid parking under trees or near construction sites.
Choose a high place: Park your car in a high place, avoid low-lying areas that are at risk of flooding. Check the surrounding terrain carefully to ensure the safety of your car.
Turn on hazard lights: When parking on the road, turn on your hazard lights to warn other vehicles.
3. Keep calm
TStable psychology and high concentration are the top important factors to ensure safety when driving in storms.
Avoid driving when tired: Fatigue and drowsiness reduce your ability to concentrate and react. Avoid driving when you feel unwell or are not alert.
Do not use stimulants: Alcohol and stimulants seriously affect the ability to perceive and control a vehicle. Never drive after using alcohol or stimulants.
Drive patiently: Stormy weather often causes traffic jams and many unexpected situations. Be patient, do not rush, do not overtake recklessly, and obey traffic laws.
Important notes when driving during the rainy season
Frequently Asked Questions When Driving During Stormy Season
1. How to handle a situation where the car is water-hammered when driving through flooded areas?
when the car with water hammer, absolutely do not try to restart the engine. Push the car to a dry place, open the hood to check. If water has entered the combustion chamber, the car needs to be towed to a professional garage for handling. Statistics show that 85% of water hammer cases can be saved if handled properly.
2. Besides ABS, what other safety systems support driving in the rain?
Traction control system (TCS), electronic stability program (ESP), and hill descent control system (HDC) are all "effective assistants" that help the vehicle operate more stably and safely in the rain.
3. At what level of water should you not drive through?
When the water level is more than half way up the wheel or reaches the exhaust pipe, you should absolutely not try to drive through it. The risk of water hammer is very high, which can cause serious damage to the engine.
4. If the car skids, should I steer in the opposite direction?
Don't! Steering in the opposite direction of the skid will cause the vehicle to completely lose balance. Stay calm, release the accelerator, and steer in the direction of the skid to regain control.
5. When driving through flooded areas, which gear should you use?
Use low gear (1st or 2nd) to increase traction and avoid water entering the exhaust pipe.
6. How to handle the situation of car brakes losing effectiveness due to wet?
When the brakes are wet and ineffective, apply the “pump brake” technique: press and release the brake several times to dry the brake pads. At the same time, reduce speed and increase the distance to the car in front. If the car has ABS, press the brake hard and hold, the system will adjust itself.
Statistics show that wet braking can reduce braking efficiency by up to 30%.
7. How to handle a tornado situation while driving a car?
In the event of a tornado, seek immediate shelter, preferably in a sturdy structure. If you cannot, stop your car, turn off the engine, crouch low, and hold on to your seat. Avoid stopping under overpasses or near objects that could be blown away by the wind.
Statistics show that 90% of tornado casualties occur to people outdoors or in mobile vehicles.
8. How to handle a lightning situation while driving a car?
Cars are generally safe from lightning thanks to the Faraday cage effect. However, to be absolutely safe, keep the windows closed, turn off the air conditioning, and avoid touching metal parts in the car. If possible, find a safe place to stop the car, away from trees or tall objects.
9. How to handle flash floods while driving?
When encountering a flash flood, the most important rule is “Turn Around, Don't Drown.” Never attempt to cross a fast-flowing stream. Just 15 cm of fast-flowing water can sweep away a person, and 30 cm of water can sweep away most vehicles. Find another route or wait for the water to recede.
Statistics show that 50% of flash flood deaths occur to people in vehicles trying to cross the water.
10. How to escape when the car falls into water?
Act quickly and calmly following the “5-step escape” principle: unbuckle your seat belt, open the window, get out, and swim to shore. The golden time to escape is only about 1 minute. Prioritize children, use electric windows, equip yourself with an escape hammer, and practice swimming skills.
Statistics show that 80% of deaths when a car falls into water are due to panic and not knowing how to escape properly. Practicing this situation in advance can increase the chance of survival by up to 90%.
Note: Equipping the car with an escape hammer (can be combined with a seat belt cutter) is a necessary safety measure, especially when driving through areas with many rivers and lakes.
11. Does auto insurance cover damage caused by water hammer?
Most auto physical damage insurance packages include flood insurance. However, the level of coverage will depend on the specific terms of each insurance package. See details in the article: Does insurance cover the cost of repairing flooded cars?? updated on the website.
12. Which garage repairs and maintains cars with prestige in HCM?
Thanh Phong Auto is one of the prestigious auto repair and maintenance addresses in Ho Chi Minh City. With a team of skilled technicians and modern equipment, Thanh Phong Auto provides comprehensive car care services to customers.
Some highlights of Thanh Phong Auto:
Diverse services: From periodic maintenance, repair of vehicle systems to engine overhaul.
Professional: Well-trained staff, experienced with many car models.
Modern equipment: Using advanced technology and equipment in diagnosis and repair.
Transparency: Detailed quotes, clear advice on vehicle condition and repair options.
Spare parts quality: Use genuine spare parts or high quality equivalents.
Warranty: Warranty commitment for repair services.
With its established reputation, Thanh Phong Auto is a reliable choice for car owners in Ho Chi Minh City when needing professional repair and maintenance services before/after the rainy season.
8 Places where car owners need to check carefully when receiving their car after repair/maintenance:
Prestigious and reliable garages all have a thorough inspection of cars before delivering them to customers. But that doesn't mean negligence doesn't happen.
So you need to double check the following 8 common mistakes to ensure your satisfaction and safety.
1. Check if the wheel screws are tightened?
2. Are the car lights bright enough on both sides?
Cars Care Service Price Sheet At Thanh Phong Auto HCMC VietNam:
* The cars that we have mechanics: Mercedes, BMW, Audi, Lexus, Toyota, Honda, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Kia, Daewoo, Hyundai,Ford, Nissan, Volkswagen, Porsche, Chevrolet, Rand Rover, Innova, Fortuner, Vios, Fiat, Bugatti, Ferrari, Bentley, Hummer , Chrysler, Dodge, Renault, Cadillac, Volvo, Subaru, Daihatsu, Ssangyong, Roll-Royce, Peugeot, Smart Fortwo, Tobe M'car, Luxgen, Zotye, Haima, Geely, Baic, Hongqi, Cmc, Mini Cooper, Buick, Opel, Acura, Aston Martin, Vinfast, TQ Wuling, BYD.
To keep your vehicle running properly at all times, we offer a number of services that are carried out by our certified, expert auto service and repair technicians who have years of experience performing everything from oil changes to a complete engine overhaul.
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