Driving in the rain can be challenging and dangerous, especially for large vehicles like semitrucks. Not only are they more likely to be involved in accidents, but their size and weight make it difficult to stop or maneuver quickly.
These are some tips for trucking through heavy rain and staying safe on the roads.
Allow for Extra Stopping Distance
When driving in the rain, it’s important to allow extra stopping distance. Semitrucks need more time and space to stop than smaller vehicles, so give yourself plenty of room. One good rule of thumb is to add an extra second or two to your following distance depending on the commercial truck body style you’re driving.
So if you usually follow another vehicle at a distance of three seconds, increase that to four or five seconds when driving in the rain. This extra time will help you avoid rear-ending the car in front of you if they brake suddenly.
Use Your Low Beam Headlights
Using your low beams when driving is always important, but it’s even more critical in the rain. The water on the road can reflect the light from your high beams and make it difficult to see. Low beams will provide enough light for you to see without being too bright.
If you find yourself in a situation where visibility is severely lower, you can use your fog lights. But be sure to turn them off when visibility improves so you don’t blind other drivers.
Watch for Hydroplaning
Hydroplaning is when your tires lose contact with the road and start to float on top of the water. This danger can happen at speeds as low as 35 mph, so it’s essential to be aware of it. If you start to hydroplane, take your foot off the gas and do not brake.
Just let your vehicle slow down on its own until it regains contact with the road. Once you feel the tires gripping the road again, you can start accelerating.
Be Cautious of Other Drivers
As a semitruck driver, you must be aware of the other vehicles on the road. In bad weather, some drivers will take unnecessary risks. Some examples of things you need to watch out for include:
- Tailgating
- Speeding
- Changing lanes without signaling
- Cutting in front of you
If another driver is doing any of these things, give them plenty of space and do not try to pass them. It’s not worth risking an accident to get ahead of them.
Understanding how to drive safely in the rain is essential for all truck drivers. Safety is always the number one priority when you’re behind the wheel, and by being cautious and prepared, you can help keep yourself and others safe on the roads. Following these tips can help reduce your risk of being involved in an accident.
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