Rainy-Day Driving: 8 Essential Tips for Staying Safe During Dana
With the recent impact of the Dana causing unexpected heavy rains on the Costa del Sol, weather conditions can change quickly, especially as storms reach nearby regions like Gibraltar. As rainy weather becomes more frequent, it’s important to ensure your car and driving habits are ready for the challenges wet roads present. In this article, we’ll cover the essentials of rainy-day driving and how to stay safe on the road when it’s pouring.
Dana
A DANA (Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos), also known as an “Isolated High-Level Depression”, is a weather phenomenon. It occurs when a mass of cold air gets trapped at high altitudes, creating instability that leads to heavy rainfall, storms, and strong winds. This can result in dangerous driving conditions, flash floods, and low visibility on the roads.
The Dana is making its presence felt along the Costa del Sol, bringing strong winds, heavy rainfall, and turbulent weather. This is causing significant regional disruptions, with flooding and hazardous conditions. As we brace for more stormy weather, it’s important to stay informed and take precautions as the Dana continues to impact Gibraltar.
Key Tips for Rainy-Day Driving
1. Check Your Tyres
Your tyres play a crucial role in maintaining grip on wet roads. Ensure they have adequate tread depth (at least 1.6mm) and are properly inflated. Underinflated or worn-out tyres can reduce traction, increasing the chances of hydroplaning. Regularly inspect your tyres, especially before driving in heavy rain during Dana.
2. Slow Down and Increase Following Distance
Wet roads reduce tyre traction, making it harder to stop quickly. To avoid accidents, reduce your speed and increase the distance between you and the vehicle ahead. A good rule of thumb is to double your usual following distance. If the car in front stops suddenly, this extra space will give you more time to react.
3. Use Your Headlights
Rain can significantly reduce visibility, making it difficult for other drivers to see you. Turn on your dipped headlights to improve your visibility without blinding other motorists. Avoid using high beams, as they can reflect off the rain and make it harder to see.
4. Avoid Sudden Movements
Abrupt braking, accelerating, or steering can cause your vehicle to lose control on wet surfaces. Instead, apply brakes gently, accelerate smoothly, and steer gradually. If your car begins to skid, stay calm, ease off the accelerator, and steer in the direction of the skid to regain control.
5. Be Wary of Hydroplaning
Hydroplaning happens when your tyres lose contact with the road due to a layer of water, causing a loss of control. If you feel your car hydroplaning, stay calm, ease off the accelerator, and steer gently in the direction you want to go. Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns, as these can worsen the skid.
6. Use Defoggers to Maintain Visibility
Rain often causes windows to fog up, reducing visibility. Use your car’s front and rear defoggers to clear condensation. You can also slightly open a window to allow air circulation, helping to prevent fog buildup inside the car.
7. Avoid Puddles and Flooded Areas
Puddles may seem harmless, but they can hide potholes or deep water that can damage your car. Driving through standing water can also lead to engine failure if water enters the intake. If you can’t gauge the depth of a flooded road, turn around and find an alternative route.
8. Stay Alert and Avoid Distractions
Rainy-day driving requires your full attention. Avoid using your phone, adjusting the radio, or engaging in anything that diverts your focus from the road. Keep both hands on the wheel and stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
Conclusion
Rainy-day driving, especially during Dana, presents unique challenges that require extra caution and preparedness. By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of accidents and ensure a safer journey. Remember to check weather updates before heading out, drive cautiously, and always prioritise safety over speed. Stay safe and drive smart!
Prepare Your Vehicle with a Free Safety Check-Up!
Before the rainy season sets in, it’s wise to ensure your car is ready for wet weather. At Prime Auto, we’re offering a free safety check-up to help you prepare. Our expert team will inspect your tyres, brakes, windscreen wipers, and other key components to ensure your car is in top shape for the rain.
Book your free safety check-up today and drive with confidence, knowing your car is ready for anything the weather throws at it.
