Five Rules To Drive Safely In The Rain
The UAE has an arid climate, and the region does not get as much rain as it does in other parts of the world. However, from September to March, the temperature plummets, and that is when UAE gets strong winds and rain showers. Rain is a common weather phenomenon accompanied by a thunderstorm, fog, or hail, creating obstacles on the roads and streets and hindering the normal course of life. Therefore, when driving in rainy weather on the roads, the number of accidents increases, and there is a risk of getting into an accident. Every driver driving on the road in the rain must be aware of some of the most dangerous factors that threaten his safety and the integrity of his car.
Rental Cars UAE is accustomed to taking the utmost care of its customers. For several years now, we have been providing car rental services without a driver for the residents and tourists of the country; therefore, among other things, we would like to remind you of a few simple but useful rules for safe driving in the rain, both on Dubai and other Emirates roads.
Dangers For Drivers When Driving In The Rain
Poor visibility during the rain can be caused by fog, dirt, and rainwater on the windshield from under the wheels of vehicles moving in front. It leads to the fact that the driver cannot fully see what is happening on the road and adequately assess the situation.
Hydroplaning is the formation of rainwater between the wheels and the road. This layer reduces the car’s grip on the road and seems to slide on it. As a result, the effectiveness of the braking process is sharply reduced, the driver may lose control, and the car may go off the road.
The biggest adversaries of city drivers are the large puddles created when rainwater collects in the potholes. You risk an accident and car damage if you hit them. Deep trenches, craters, and open hatches could be hidden beneath the surface of the puddles.
Rule 1: Turn On The Lights
Visibility in the rain is greatly reduced. Turning on your headlights won’t make you see better, but it will make your car more visible, especially if it’s black or grey. It’s preferable to activate the rear headlights as well, making your vehicle visible from all directions.
Rule 2: Reduce Speed
Driving at low speed will allow you to brake faster in an emergency, help you overcome puddles more easily, and not lose control. If the rain is very heavy, with hail, then it is better to stop the car altogether at the side of the road and wait.
Rule 3: Avoid Abrupt Maneuvers
Overtaking in the rain should be smooth, without sudden movements of the car, because road grip is poor, and there is a possibility that the car will not move clearly along a given trajectory.
Rule 4: Avoid Tailgating
In rainy weather, the distance between vehicles should be at least twice the normal distance. Increasing the distance will protect the windshield from dirt and water from under the wheels of other cars and reduce the risk of a collision.
Rule 5: Brake Smoothly
Hard braking on slippery roads can change direction and throw the car off the road.
Conclusion
The basic rule of driving in the rain is if a trip can be delayed, it is better to postpone it. But if this is not possible, all traffic rules must be carefully observed. Lastly, while driving in the rain, you should be extremely careful and remain calm. Suppose you are a novice driver and have urgent work or an emergency to deal with. In that case, better rent a car in Dubai with an experienced driver who can take you to your destination without any delays is recommended.
