According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration statistics,
nearly one million vehicle accidents a year occur in wet weather. Many
of these rainy-day wrecks are caused by motorists failing to appreciate
the vast difference between driving in wet and dry conditions, says
Peter Cunningham, a championship-winning race car driver who tours the
United States for Firestone, teaching driving skills and discussing the
importance of proper tires.
"To
drive safely on wet pavement, you have to recognize the demands that
you, your vehicle and your tires face," Cunningham says. "It's very
different than driving on dry pavement, but many motorists fail to
change techniques and attention. That's when many wet weather accidents
occur."
Cunningham's wet weather driving tips include:
*
Slow down. As your speed decreases, the tire footprint (the amount of
the tire's tread contacting the road surface) increases, providing
better traction. You also reduce the risk of hydroplaning should you
run into deeper water puddled on the road.
* Maintain a safe distance. Even with a good wet weather tire, be
prepared for longer stopping distances on wet pavement. Since other
cars may not have proper tires for wet weather driving, be extra alert
at stop signs and red lights.
* Choose tires carefully. Too many
drivers buy a tire based on initial price or appearance. For optimum
performance in the rain, select a tire with tread design and rubber
compounds that provide enhanced wet weather driving capabilities.
* Properly maintain your tires. No tire can provide good wet traction
once the tread is worn below 2/32-inch (0.16cm) tread depth. Check your
tires regularly and replace them at the proper time. Also, maintain the
proper air pressure in your tires; check your vehicle owner's manual or
the door jamb for the proper air pressure for your particular vehicle
and tires.
* Drive smoothly. When braking, accelerating or turning, avoid jerky, abrupt movements.
* Avoid hydroplaning. If you feel your vehicle starting to hydroplane
(riding on the surface of the water), take your foot off the
accelerator and don't hit your brakes. If you have a manual
transmission, push in the clutch and let the vehicle slow down until
control is regained.
* Plan your braking. If you are entering a curve slow down and brake gently before you start to turn.
* Turn on your lights. Most states require that headlights be on
during rain or inclement weather. In may not help you see, but it will
help other drivers see you.
* Check your wipers. Install new wiper blades at least once a year to ensure good vision.
Cunningham says his driving tips can be shortened to "T & T."
"Think
and Tires," he says. "Think about your driving and install good tires
for wet weather. Once you've installed the tires, keep them inflated
properly and replace them when tread-wear indicator bars show. Don't be
shy about asking information from your tire dealer."
(Courtesy of Bridgestone/Firestone North American Tire)
For more tire care information and driving tips, visit www.bridgestone-firestone.com
automotive advice for women
