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While snow may be harder to drive in, you’ll be facing rain far more often, so you should know how to handle your car in it. Roadways quickly become covered in water, increasing the chances of hydroplaning. By following the common sense do’s and don’ts below, you can minimize the likelihood of an accident or the need for roadside assistance.

Do:

Limit your speed.

Did you know that you can start hydroplaning at as little as 35 miles per hour? While you don’t have to go that slow, you do want to adjust your speed to give yourself more reaction time. Leave more distance between yourself and drivers in front of you and take turns more slowly than you would normally.

Turn on your headlights.

roadside assistanceEven if you think the rain is light enough that you don’t need your headlights, rain density can change quickly. Keeping headlights on increases your visibility for other drivers, and it makes it easier for you to navigate if you’re suddenly caught in a downpour.

Don’t:

Use cruise control.

Cruise control is your best friend on long road trips, but it can be dangerous during rainstorms. The lack of traction that occurs during hydroplaning can send a false signal to your cruise control, causing the car to accelerate. This increases the likelihood that you’ll lose control and end up in a ditch needing a tow truck for roadside assistance.

Panic if you lose control.

The most important tool in controlling your car is a clear head. If you panic when your car starts hydroplaning, you might stomp on the brakes. What seems like a natural reaction could cause your car to veer unpredictably, possibly sending it into oncoming traffic. Instead, let off the accelerator and carefully steer until the car has slowed and you have control again.

 

Even with these precautions, you may find that the rain gets the better of you and you skid off the road. For prompt roadside assistance throughout Kalispell, MT, call Bolster’s Towing. For nearly 50 years, they’ve offered reliable emergency services for drivers in need. To get assistance, call (406) 752-4528, and visit them online to learn more.

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