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A light rain presents unique challenges. Rainwater mixes with residual oil, dust and even leaves on the roadway surface to make conditions slick. First and foremost, increase the distance between your car and the one in front of you and take care turning and braking. Sudden steering changes and brake applications are a recipe for losing traction under these conditions. And remember, many states require the use of headlights if there is sufficient rain for windshield wipers. Heavy rain creates the opportunity for hydroplaning, a dangerous condition in which your car’s tires lose contact with the road and instead float on a thin layer of water. Hydroplaning can be avoided by slowing down. If you sense that your car is hydroplaning, ease your foot off the accelerator and avoid sudden steering or braking, after which traction should return. Driving in fog can be hazardous and should be avoided whenever possible. Again, the first rule is to slow down. Drive with your headlights on or use fog lights if your car is so equipped. Do not use your high-beams – the fog will reflect them back to you, particularly at night. Do not overdrive the beams of your headlights; drive at a speed that keeps you within your field of vision. If you see headlights or taillights in front of you, slow down to increase the distance between you and that car. Use caution as the car could be stopped or barely moving. Finally, if the fog becomes too dense, get off the road and stop. Creeping along the road at 5-10 mph can be unsafe. |
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