Every year 1.2 million people die from traffic accidents. It is the second cause of death for people between the ages of 5 and 29 and the third for people between the ages of 30 and 44, according to United Nations figures. To reduce and avoid deaths it is important that the driver is responsible, prudent and knows the rules, but it is also crucial that the cars are always in good condition.
The rainy season has begun and with it comes an increased chance of accidents. The moment in which you should be more careful when the rain is starting, this is because the mixture of grease, dust and the first drops of rain make the slippery surface and little adherent. You also have to be very alert when the rain is so strong that it prevents you from having full visibility.
How to drive when it rains?
Volkswagen specialists recommend:
Reduce speed
with the rain worsens visibility and road conditions, depending on the intensity of precipitation. That is why it is essential that drivers slow down.
Try to ride in the center lanes
Generally, flooding occurs in the street endsso puddles can cause the vehicle to lose control.
Activate your low beam or blinkers
If you’re in the middle of a downpour, flashing lights are very helpful so other drivers can see you. Do not forget to constantly check the lights so that they do not fail in case of rain.
Don’t get fined!
Check that all vehicle lights work and use them in the rain, even during the day 🛣️🚗
This is advice from #CTE.#Thank you pic.twitter.com/bpwAJvpQ54— Traffic Commission (@CTEcuador) January 17, 2023
Increase the safety distance
It is recommended keep a distance between vehicles that allows braking without colliding with the car in front of us. The recommendation is that it be from 10 meters and increase according to the speed at which it circulates.
aquaplanning
Aquaplanning is an effect that occurs when the tires cannot adhere to the asphalt because they cannot evacuate the water that is on the road. This causes the car to slide on a thin layer of water between the tire and the road.
How to avoid this situation?
- Reduce your speed without braking when you approach the puddle.
- Gently lift your foot off the accelerator and hold the steering wheel firmly.
- Do not change the trajectory.
- Do not brake until you feel that your car has regained contact with the ground.
The tires
A tire in good condition can save the passengers of a vehicle during a rain. Mileage is not the only determining factor in defining when to change a tire. According to the manufacturers, proper care extends the life of the tire.
After five years or more of use, have your tires inspected by a professional, at least once a year. When checking every 5,000 or 10,000 kilometers, or when changing the oil, you can choose to rotate and align the tires. Rotating means changing the tires from the rear to the front and vice versa to try to get even wear.
The maximum useful life of the tires is ten years.It also depends on the brand. Take into account that the tread on the rims has not worn down.
Source: Eluniverso
Paul is a talented author and journalist with a passion for entertainment and general news. He currently works as a writer at the 247 News Agency, where he has established herself as a respected voice in the industry.
