Tips to Drive Your Truck Safely in the Rain
Rainy season is almost upon us here in Melbourne. And with the first drop of rain will come the people that don’t know how to drive in the rain. Rain causes the most accidents of all weather-related collisions. As tow truck drivers and operators of heavy-duty vehicles, we know there are certain precautions you can and should take during the rainy season to help with safe truck driving. Here are some of our suggestions to help you drive your truck or heavy-duty vehicle more safely in the rain.
6 Tips to Drive Your Truck or Heavy-Duty Vehicle Safely in the Rain
Eliminate Distractions
When it’s raining, you need to set yourself up for maximum focus, especially for a long haul. Get everything plugged into your GPS before you start your trip so you’re able to focus as soon as you start driving. If you really want to take extra precaution you can put your phone on “Do Not Disturb” and check it when you stop for gas or rest for the night. The less distracted you are, the safer you’ll drive your rig in the rain.
Always Wear Your Seat Belt
This is just common sense. You should always be wearing your seat belt in a moving vehicle. Rain causes more accidents nationwide than snow, sleet or fog. While we might live in sunny Melbourne, it does rain here. And 46 percent of weather-related accidents happen in the rain. With increased chances of accidents in the rain, you don’t want to risk not wearing your seat belt. Make sure you buckle up for increased safety while driving your vehicle in the rain.
Watch for Potential Road Hazards
Since it doesn’t rain much in Melbourne, the roads aren’t particularly suited to accommodate downpour. Even a small rainstorm can leave puddles and disguise potholes. Safe truck driving doesn’t just happen. You have to be engaged with the road in order to be safe. Watch out for flood zones and potholes to prevent your truck from being damaged while you’re on the road. The more aware you are of the road conditions, the better you’re going to fare.
Drive Slower and Brake Sooner
Rain causes a loss of traction for the wheels of your vehicle. Depending how heavy your vehicle is, a split-second loss of traction can be the difference between safety or an accident. When it’s raining, the easiest thing you can do to drive your truck safely is to slow down. The heavier your load, the longer it’s going to take you to slow down. Drive slower and brake sooner in order to increase your chances of safety while on the road.
Increase Following Distance
In addition to driving slower and braking sooner, another tip that will help you increase your safety on the road is to increase the following distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. As we mentioned earlier, it takes longer to stop in the rain. By increasing the following distance between you and the next car, you’re giving yourself ample time to stop should you need to. The more space you have, the safer you are.
Change Speeds Gradually
Again, traction is very important when you’re driving in the rain. If your wheels aren’t gripping the pavement, you’re in for a wild and dangerous ride. Accelerate or decelerate slower than you normally would. This will help you drive your truck safely.
If You’re Not Comfortable, Stop Driving
The key to safe truck driving is knowing when you’re in over your head. If you’re uncomfortable with the conditions of the road, afraid even, it’s ok to pull over and stop driving. Your safety is the most important thing when you’re on the road. And if you don’t feel safe, you’re potentially putting other lives at risk. It’s better for everyone if you pull over until the conditions improve. If you’re going to pull over to the side of the road, make sure there is ample space or an emergency lane for you to pull into. You don’t want to get hit by any passing vehicles that may have trouble driving in the same conditions.
Reliable Towing Company Rain or Shine
If you’re in a bind, rain or shine, our team at Car Towing Melbourne is ready to help out. We’re ready to tackle any job, no matter how rainy it is. Rainy season creates chaos on the road. If you get caught up in the chaos and end up needing a tow, winch-out, undecking or anything in between, Car Towing Melbourne is more than capable of coming to your aid. All you have to do is contact us or call us at (03) 7037 7625 when you need us most.
If you are in Vermont, Victoria 3133, and looking to tow your truck, below is the best way to visit us.
Contact us at
Car Towing of Balwyn
105/340 Whitehorse Road
Balwyn North VIC 3103
(03) 7037 7625