When driving in bad weather carry warm clothing and blankets, flares and flashlight to wipe condensation from windows.
Rain Driving
- Get the "feel" of the road and adjust your speed accordingly.
- Be sure tires have plenty of tread and are properly inflated.
- Wiper blades and defrosters need to be in good working condition.
- When slowing or stopping, gently apply the brakes.
- Drive with the headlights on.
- To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning or drowsiness leave your window open slightly.
- Be constantly alert for signs of hydroplaning.
- Wet brakes may pull or stop slower than usual.
Hydroplaning
When your car hydroplanes it is actually riding on a thin layer of water between the tires and the road. Steering and braking are lost as contact with the pavement decreases. What to look for: 1) reflections visible in water accumulated on pavement; 2) "loose" feeling in steering wheel; 3) rain drop dimples appearing in road. What to do: 1) steer smoothly without jerking; 2) inflate tires to properly inflated pressure; 3) drive in the tireprints of the vehicle ahead, where the water has already been displace; 4) leave extra space between you and the traffic ahead 5) get an early start allowing enough time to reach your destination; 6) to obtain the latest information on road conditions, call the ROAD CONDITIONS HOTLINE at 800-427-ROAD (7623).
Driving In Fog
- Reduce your speed.
- Drive with lights on low beam. It is illegal to drive with just your parking lights on.
- Avoid crossing traffic unless absolutely necessary.
- Listen for traffic you cannot see.
- Be Patient! Don't pass lines of traffic.
- Use wipers and defroster as necessary for maximum vision.
- Avoid personal injury—unless absolutely necessary, do not stop on any freeway, or other heavy traveled road.
- Move away from a disabled or stalled vehicle to avoid personal injury.
- Consider postponing your trip until the fog clears.
- Remember: Smoke and dust can also cause visibility problems.
Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)
If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-lock brake system, it will help to prevent a locked wheel skid and significantly improve braking ability in wet weather. Do not pump or gently apply the brake pedal. Instead, apply firm, consistent pressure on brake pedal.
Parking And Stopping—You May NOT
- Park with any portion of your vehicle on the roadway when it is practical to pull off completely.
- Park at any location where signs are posted prohibiting parking.
- Park along any freeway, including freeway ramps, except for emergency purposes.
Vehicle Checklist
Personal Checklist
8-Step Checklist Before Starting Car