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Though you may try to avoid it, you’ll likely have to drive during a thunderstorm from time to time. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to ensure your safety on the roads and minimize the risk of accidents. Consider the guide below where auto maintenance professionals offer a handful of tips on how to drive during a severe weather event.

How to Drive Safely During Bad Weather

1. Go Slowly

When you’re behind the wheel during windy and rainy conditions, one of the first things you should do is slow down, even if this means going below the speed limit. Slower driving gives you greater control over your vehicle, allows you to anticipate any issues ahead, and prevents the car from hydroplaning. It can also allow you to react more quickly if a car in front of you suddenly stops or begins to slide.

2. Turn On Your Lights

As soon as you turn on your windshield wipers, turn on your headlights to increase visibility. However, don’t use your hazard lights, as they may distract other drivers and increase the potential for collisions. If you’re on remote roads during heavy storms, turn on your bright lights so that you can see more clearly and other drivers can see you.  

3. Leave Space Between Vehicles

auto maintenance Rochester, INRainstorms make the roads slick, which increases stopping time and may cause your tires to slide while decelerating. Prevent skidding into other vehicles at stop signs and traffic lights by leaving at least a few car lengths between you and the driver in front of you. You can also use the five-second rule: when the car in front of you passes a stationary landmark, it should take you five seconds to pass that same location.

4. Eliminate Distractions

During storms accompanied by thunder and lightning, you’ll likely have more trouble seeing and hearing potential hazards. Eliminate distractions by getting off the phone and turning your music down so that you can focus all of your attention on the road.

 

Stay safe behind the wheel with routine auto maintenance from Fulton County Best One Tires & Service Center. They offer oil changes, wheel alignments, tire changes, and transmission services to drivers throughout Rochester, IN. Call (574) 223-2103 today to book an appointment for auto maintenance, and visit their website to learn more about how they can keep your vehicle in dependable condition year-round.

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