Everyone in the nation heard about Houston’s recent torrential rain. But unless you lived it, it’s hard to describe how challenging and devastating it was. While rain is nature’s garden helper, sometimes it takes a turn into something more sinister. If you’re out driving in it, it can also become a major safety issue. Since Houston is prone to large rainstorms, it’s essential that you learn the basics of handling them when out in your car. Here are 4 things to know about driving in Houston during heavy rain.
#1 Slow Down
It may be your neighborhood and you know the roads like the back of your hand—it doesn’t matter. In heavy rain the first thing you do to increase your safety and the safety of others is slow down. When deep puddles form, you never know how deep they are until you’re in them. If you race through them rather than inch through, you may find yourself in a precarious situation. Don’t use your cruise control either. Cruise control’s automatic acceleration may cause you to hydroplane and/or lose control. People may whiz past you blaring their horn if you’re going under the speed limit on a bad day, but if it keeps you and your family safe, what’s a little extra noise?
#2 Use Lights, but not too Bright
You aren’t using your lights to see during rainstorms, but instead to inform people you’re there. Visibility is impaired during heavy rain in Houston, and your vehicle’s lights become a beacon to other drivers. That said, you don’t need your brights, your regular headlights will work just fine.
# 3 Position is Everything
One of the most important things to do during a heavy rainstorm is to be very aware of your surroundings. There are a few crucial things to think about:
- Stay in the middle lanes – Outer lanes tend to pool more water. Avoid them if you can.
- Increase your following distance – If you normally follow the correct number of car lengths for your speed, add a little more distance on a rainy day. Poor road conditions can cause braking to take even longer, and it gives you ample time to react if someone else is out of control.
- Watch for large trucks and trailers – Trailers are a hazard in the rain and wind, becoming unpredictable. Stay as far away as possible. Also, large trucks kick up visually debilitating spray—pass when it’s safe, but otherwise stay out of the path of the potential waves of water.
- Stay out of deep water – Your electrical systems and engine are compromised if water gets in them. If the water looks deep—beware—better safe than sorry and stalled.
- Stay out of moving water – If water is moving and you can’t see the ground, you risk being swept away.
- Follow vehicle tracks – Try and stay in the tracks of the vehicle in front of you.
- Stay on the road – Bad weather does not make for good off-roading. Stay on the road if you have to drive during heavy rainstorms.
#4 Plan in Advance
If you know the storm is coming, take the time to prepare. There are several things you can do to ensure a better experience. They are:
- Map your route – Look at alerts and roadway information before leaving the house. You’ll want to make sure your route is clear and free from obstacles or major flooding.
- Let people know when you go – Having a friend or family member know that you’re driving is smart in case you get stranded. That way, when you don’t show up, they’ll send out the search party.
- Check your car – Do your wipers work well? Is your windshield clean? Are your brakes in good condition? Make sure the things you’ll need are in working order before you leave.
- Stow safety gear – Cell phones, flares, a road kit, flashlight, food, water and blankets can all come in handy on the off-chance something happens. It’s best to be prepared.
- Don’t go – If your boss is willing, take the day off. Anything that can be put off until later should be rather than taking the risk of driving during a really bad rainstorm.
Rainstorms happen in Houston, and as long as you take the proper precautions, you’ll be fine. Make sure to look over these 4 things before getting on the road during the next big downpour.
