Tips for Driving in the Rain in Lynchburg, VA

Downpours can be just as dangerous as ice-covered roads. Heavy rains can limit visibility and make roads slick. When this happens, you must adjust your driving style - be more vigilant, slow down, and be extra careful.

There is a direct correlation between higher accident rates and rainy conditions. One tip to stay safe during such weather is to stay home and avoid going out altogether. Still, you need to drive even when the roads are wet and dangerous. You might need to go on a grocery run or run an errand. If that is the case, you just have to understand how harsh weather can affect your vehicle's handling and traction control to drive safely.

Berglund Toyota has compiled a list of key safety driving tips. And if you’re looking for a rain-ready vehicle, come shop at our dealership in Lynchburg, VA.

Maintaining a safe following distance is always an excellent idea, and you should give the vehicles in front of you plenty of room. It will give you more time to react when something unexpected happens. Drive carefully and watch out for brake lights from other vehicles. If your Toyota has a dynamic radar cruise control feature, you can set it to a safe following distance. However, you should still use this sparingly as it can interfere with your responsiveness.

Hydroplaning can also be avoided by maintaining a slow pace. Wet roads can make even driving at 35 mph dangerous because your tires may lose contact with the surface. You should also avoid harsh braking and sudden turns.

You should refrain from using your vehicle's cruise control as much as possible. If the driver uses cruise control, they cannot ease off the accelerator to prevent traction loss. As a driver, you should avoid using cruise control in wet weather since it reduces your ability to stay engaged.

When it rains, visibility is low. Windshield wipers can quickly clear water from your windshield, improving visibility. Check that the wipers function as they should. When the wipers operate properly, the windshield should be streak-free and smeared-free. They should be replaced promptly if they stop working or make a scraping noise. Using rain-sensing wipers during the rainy season or applying water-repellent products to your windshield may also be a good idea.

Rain can make the road extra slippery. Vehicle grease and oil accumulate on the road over time, and when it rains, these mix with the water, making the surface slippery.

Driving through standing water may result in hydroplaning. When this happens, you lose traction and risk skidding across the road. Consider changing lanes or steering safely around your lane if you notice accumulated water.

Keeping your headlights on when driving in the rain, even during the day, is recommended to increase visibility. Good visibility will make it easier for you to drive safely and for other drivers to see you. Fog lights and automatic headlights are available for better visibility.

In the rain, you should slow down and brake gently. If you are close to stopping, ease up on the accelerator sooner. Be gentle when applying the brakes. You should pay attention to the braking and acceleration of your vehicle when using cruise control.

Don't buy tires based on appearance or price like most drivers. The traction provided by your tires keeps you stable and safe when driving in wet weather. Hence, it is important to choose a set of rubber tires suitable for driving in the rain and have the right tread pattern.

Humidity levels increase when it rains, and your windows may become foggy. Cars have ventilation systems that prevent windows and windshields from fogging up. If the system is not working and you can't see outside, pull over until visibility improves.

When you cannot see anything despite your headlights or fog lights, pull over and wait until the rain stops. Be sure to activate your hazard lights so other drivers can see you on the road.

Remember these precautions next time there is a rainstorm in your area. Having an all-wheel-drive vehicle is also beneficial in slippery conditions, providing excellent traction and stability.

Visit Berglund Toyota in Lynchburg, VA, if you're looking for a vehicle to withstand harsh weather conditions. Our dealership has Toyota models with all-wheel-drive systems, such as the Corolla, Highlander, 4Runner, and Camry. Drop by and test drive one.