Wet-Weather Driving
Rain can make an already annoying commute even worse. Wet conditions mean poor traction. Here’s how to combat two problems that often arise in the rain.
How to Recover From a Skid
1. Release the brake to unlock wheels, take foot off accelerator, steer in direction of skid.
2. Lightly tap brakes while car straightens.
3. Continue to slow car down until control is regained.
Stay Off the Hydroplane
Proper tire inflation: Increases traction; low pressure causes tread to squeeze together, reducing tire’s ability to wipe or channel away water. Under-inflated tires heat up, increasing the likelihood of a blowout.
HYDROPLANING
* Hydroplaning occurs when a film of water between tires and road causes a car to skid.
* A car’s grip on the road depends on its tire footprint--the small area of contact where the tire meets the road. Amount of water, car speed and tire pressure all affect footprint traction.
TWO OTHER FACTORS
Distance: Maintain space on all sides to brake or maneuver; try to maintain at least a car length for every 10 mph you are traveling. At 65 mph on a wet road, a car needs 750 feet to stop compared with 250 feet on dry pavement.
Brakes: May get soaked in deep puddles, making stopping difficult. Dry them by simultaneously the pressing gas and brake pedals, but only until they work again.
General Tips
* Use center lanes because water collects toward curbs.
* Prevent window fogging by opening a window and turning defroster on high.
* Increase distance behind other vehicles.
* Leave early and drive slower.
Today’s Weather
Showers should be falling by the time the morning commute is in progress. They will continue through the afternoon rush with accumulations perhaps reaching as much as an inch. Temperatures should reach no higher than 60.
Sources: Tire Industry Safety Council, Times reports.