Along with lots of heat, the summer season also brings plenty of rainy weather. Unfortunately, rainstorms can impair driving in several ways, so it's crucial to understand and practice safe driving habits in adverse weather. Otherwise, you could have an accident, get injured, and need collision repairs for your vehicle. Below is a helpful guide that details the different ways rain can impact your driving and what you can do to stay safe on the road. 

How Does Rain Affect Driving?

Rainy conditions can significantly reduce a driver’s visibility on the road. As a result, drivers often have to slow down to avoid swerving or hitting anything in their path, which impedes traffic flow. Windshield wipers can help, but it can still be hard to see other vehicles on the road. In addition to low visibility, rain reduces tire traction. Streets become slippery because the rain mixes with oil on the surface of the asphalt. When applying the brakes, the tires may glide over the surface of the pavement, especially when traveling at high speeds. Under these conditions, accidents—which often lead to an unexpected trip to a collision repair center—are frequent.

How Can You Prevent Accidents?

On average, more than 5 million auto accidents occur each year, and roughly 21% of those collisions are attributed to adverse weather. Thankfully, there are driving habits you can use to keep you and other drivers safe, including the following:

• Drive Slow: The best way to stay safe while driving in a rainstorm is to take your time. Not only will a reduced speed help your tires remain in contact with the road, but it will also give you enough time to take note of your surroundings.
• Turn Off the Music: Music can be a distraction while driving. If the rain is steady, turn off your radio to better concentrate on the cars around you.
• Don’t Tailgate: It’s a good idea to follow the car ahead of you because their tire tracks will have more traction than the wet pavement. However, it’s best to give yourself enough space in case they brake suddenly. 

If you were recently in a weather-related accident and need quality collision repair services, reach out to the team at Jerry Ernst Auto Body. As the go-to collision repair experts in Cincinnati, OH, for over 30 years, their certified technicians provide their customers with a wide variety of auto body repair services such as painting, mechanical repairs, and full vehicle restorations. For more details about their competitively priced services, call (513) 871-7200 or visit them online today.