Driving in the rain may compromise your visibility, traction, and safety. Still, some techniques can help you overcome wet roads. Keep reading this post by Weaver Synthetics in Portland to learn more.

If there's one thing that puts even the best driver to the test, it's rain. And it's no wonder since rain reduces driving visibility while wet surfaces compromise tire traction. In those conditions, the best option is to avoid driving until the rain is over. Yet, sometimes there is no choice but to take the wheel and face the rain. Thus, this post gathers a few tips on how to improve your safety while driving in the rain. If you are interested in this topic, read on.

Keep your engine in mint shape for longer by feeding it with the best synthetic oil in Portland. Contact Weaver Synthetics at (503) 244-9394 for advice on which formulas best suit your engine's needs. Also, browse AMSOIL's online store to explore the full line of top-quality products for your car.

Staying Safe While Driving in the Rain

Stay On Top of Your Vehicle's Maintenance

First of all, you should have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic before the rainy season begins. That way, you'll know your car is ready to make it through the rainy season without trouble. Here are the most important systems and components to check:

• Windshield wipers are key when driving in the rain, hence checking them is vital. When doing so, see if they emit a squeaking sound when they turn on or if they make a mess on the windshield. In such cases, check the wiper blades. If you notice their rubber is cracked or worn, replace them with new wiper blades.
• Tires must be in top shape to face soaked surfaces. Properly aligned and inflated tires will provide an optimal grip on the ground. They also need to have proper tread depth to ensure good performance.
• The function of brakes is critical to your safety behind the wheel. Thus, it is vital to check their entire system, including brake discs, pads, and fluid.
• Keeping your headlights in good shape makes up for the loss of visibility that comes with rain. Thus, be sure to have your vehicle's lighting system checked.

Improve Your Visibility

On top of blocking light, rain often creates condensation on windshields. Such conditions are risky at the wheel, as they hinder you from seeing the road. Luckily, there are a few tricks to improve visibility and keep condensation under control. Here they are:

1. First, turn on the windshield wipers. Remember to set them at a low, intermittent, or high speed, depending on the intensity of the rain.
2. Next, turn on your low beams. If the rain comes with fog, turn on the fog lights as well.
3. If the windshield starts to fog up, turn on the defroster.
4. Turning on the air conditioner can help defog the windshield faster.
5. You can also roll down the windows a bit to allow air to circulate inside the cabin. That will keep condensation under control.

Keeping up with your vehicle's maintenance is key to staying safe while driving in the rain. Reach out to Weaver Synthetics at (503) 244-9394, and ask for the best synthetic oil change in Portland. Don't forget to place your order through AMSOIL's online store.

Slow Down

Slowing down compensates for the lack of traction and visibility caused by rain. On that note, it's worth mentioning how rainwater mixes with oil and grease residues dumped on the road. Such a mixture results in a slippery layer that compromises tire grip. Fortunately, reducing speed allows the tires more time to grip the surface. Likewise, driving slower makes it easier to brake and react to road hazards.

Keep a Safe Following Distance

As mentioned before, rain requires more caution and care at the wheel. For such reason, you must increase your following distance. If you usually set a 3 to 4-second following distance, increase it to 8 to 10 seconds whenever it rains. That way, you'll have more time to react if the driver in front of you suddenly brakes. It will also help you avoid the spray other vehicles throw when passing through puddles.

Beware of Hydroplaning

Hydroplaning is one of the main risks associated with driving in the rain. If that term is unfamiliar, it is worth mentioning that it refers to a skid caused by traction loss on a wet surface. As expected, keeping your tires in mint shape is the best way to prevent hydroplaning. Yet, knowing what to do in case of skidding is still helpful. Here are some tips for dealing with a skid:

1. Try to remain calm until the tires regain traction.
2. Release the gas pedal.
3. Avoid slamming on the brakes, as this could make the situation worse.
4. Keep both hands on the steering wheel, always pointing in the direction you want the car to go.

Rely on top-shelf formulas like AMSOIL's Signature Series 10W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil to extend the life of your engine. Call Weaver Synthetics at (503) 244-9394 or visit AMSOIL's online store to place an order for the most effective synthetic oil in Portland.