Make Your Rainy Weather Driving More Confident with Top Tips from Thelen Kia
Driving in the rain can be challenging, even for experienced drivers. Rainy conditions reduce visibility, while wet roads decrease traction and increase the risk of hydroplaning, skidding, and sliding. This is especially true in mid-Michigan, where rain showers can be frequent and unpredictable. To help you stay safe and confident on the road, here are some rainy driving tips to follow from Thelen Kia in Bay City, MI.
Our Favorite Rainy Weather Driving Tips
- Check your tires. Before you hit the road, make sure your tires are properly inflated and have enough tread depth. Bald tires can’t grip the road as well, especially in wet conditions. If your tires are worn out, consider replacing them with new ones that have a good wet traction rating. Our Tire Center is happy to offer a variety of quality tire options for your Kia car, SUV or minivan.
- Slow down. Rainy roads require slower speeds, as braking and turning take longer and require more distance. Reduce your speed by at least 5-10 mph below the posted speed limit and avoid sudden maneuvers or lane changes. Also, use your headlights to increase your visibility and make yourself more visible to others.
- Leave more space. To account for the longer stopping distances and reduced traction, increase your following distance to at least 4-5 seconds behind the vehicle in front of you. This will give you more time to react and avoid a collision if necessary.
- Avoid puddles. Standing water can be deeper than it appears and can cause hydroplaning, which is when your tires lose contact with the road and skid across the water’s surface. Try to avoid large puddles or flooded areas, and if you can’t, slow down and steer straight through them without braking or accelerating.
- Be gentle with your brakes and steering. Wet roads can be slippery, and sudden braking or turning can cause your vehicle to skid or lose control. Instead, apply the brakes and steering smoothly and gradually, and avoid sudden inputs or jerky movements.
By following these rainy driving tips, you can reduce your risk of accidents and enjoy a safer and more comfortable ride in the Great Lake Bay Region’s rainy weather. If you need a new vehicle that can handle wet roads and bad weather efficiently, visit Thelen Kia in Bay City, Michigan, and check out our selection of AWD and safety-enhanced Kia models.
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Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.