The AEMET warns of the squall Denise and the bad weather that will continue during these days. Rain is the most common meteorological phenomenon in winter in Spain, and when water is the protagonist, the risk of having an accident increases by up to 70% according to various studies collected by the DGT.
When it rains while we drive it is necessary use crossing lightingincrease the speed of the windscreen wipers when overtaking, increase the safety distance and turn on the heating to prevent the windows from misting up.
In addition, before starting to drive, we must make sure that the tires are in good condition by checking the wear of the main grooves of the tread.
If we enter aquaplanin -the tires cannot dislodge the water from the surface due to wear, low pressure or excessive speed-, we must hold the steering wheel tightly, do not brake hard and when we notice that we have regained grip, gently correct the trajectory.
In addition to these general considerations, the experts also remind us of the main mistakes when driving in bad weather.
In the first place, they highlight not checking the tires: they are, without a doubt, one of the most important elements of the vehicle since they are the only connection of the car with the road. If the tire is not checked, it may be worn and therefore lose adhesion, especially in the wet. The regulations establish that the depth of the tread pattern must not be less than 1.6 mm although, to gain grip and safety, Norauto recommends not going below 3 mm, especially in the rain. And it is that a worn tire radically increases the risk of aquaplaning and lengthens the braking alarmingly.
You have to check the wear of a tire with a depth gauge or depth gauge. At home it can be done quickly with a coin as a reference. If the coin is inserted into the grooves of the tire and the outer ring of the €1 coin it still does not protrude, it means that the wheel is still in good condition. However, if it can be seen, it means that the tread of the wheel is below its limit, and it will be convenient to change it.
You can also locate the signs of wear distributed along the tread. Manufacturers include a series of indicators on the side of the tire, which can be the brand’s own logo or a triangle or the initials TWI (from Tread Wear Indicator). A tire close to that wear limit may not be a safe tire, so it is recommended to change it before.
Another mistake is not checking the good condition of the brushes, both front and rear: in the rain, the wipers help to remove the water so that the driver can see. If it is not in good condition, they do not make the correct sweep and, therefore, can worsen visibility. Instead of cleaning they can make more dirty.
The brush life under optimal operating conditions is approximately one year. They are followed by not checking the windshield washer fluid: they are important to clean the windshield in the first drops of rain, precisely the most critical situation, since the few drops of water mix with the dirt. You have to check the level and add if necessary. Although not only in the rain, it is also advisable to check oil, power steering, brake fluid and, above all, antifreeze.
It is usual that we do not check the correct operation of the air conditioner or the defog system the crystals. And it is that the crystals fog up when they are cold and due to the difference in temperature with respect to the interior of the vehicle. Many vehicles have their own automatic anti-fogging system for the windows, both the front and the rear. Otherwise, you can direct the air conditioning to the maximum towards the windows.
As for the lights, the hours of light decrease and, in addition, the rains typical of autumn prevent correct vision. For this reason, it is necessary to check that there is no cast light and that they are level. When it rains, the position and crossing lights must be on. Those of fog only if the rain is intense.
Another common mistake is not checking the proper functioning of the brakes: a professional mechanic should check pads and discs. Do not forget that the braking distance increases in the rain and that the road is especially slippery with the first drops. At a speed of 50 km/h the braking distance can be almost doubled in the rain.
Mistakes
Those that affect the driver
Regarding the most frequent errors that affect the driver, driving without taking adverse weather conditions into account stands out. When there is rain, wind… it is important to drive responsibly slowing down and adapting it to the special conditions of the road and the weather. You must also increase the safety distance from the vehicle in front and avoid distractions and overtaking at all times. In strong wind situations like the current one, you must hold the steering wheel firmly and always with both hands. You should avoid going through tunnels and bridges. The ‘screen’ effect must be taken into account, a situation that occurs when overtaking a large vehicle: the car’s steering becomes out of control and it is important to correct it.
It is advisable not to take the vehicle without checking the weather or the state of traffic. There are circumstances in which it is better not to take the vehicle such as torrential rains, very windy gusts… Today technology allows us to know the traffic in real state and weather forecasts. Norauto recommends doing this consultation before a trip, especially if it is long, and advises to avoid driving in extreme situations where safety cannot be guaranteed and there is no visibility.
It is equally common to go through puddles without knowing their depth. It is another big mistake That many drivers make. In these cases, the risk of aquaplaning increases. The depth of the puddle is unknown and, therefore, the tire may stop being in contact with the asphalt, losing control of the vehicle.
As drivers, we must take into account other more vulnerable road users: pedestrians, motorcycles, bicycles, electric scooter users. If they are surprised by rain on the road, their vulnerability increases. It is advisable increase the safety distance respect to them and slow down a lot. We must remember that we are all vulnerable users at some point.
In case of rain, it is important to have the vehicle ready and prepared for rainy, cold and windy situations, in addition to driving responsibly and respectfully.