Driving in the rain It always requires extra attention, since in the face of this inclement weather a good number of conditions change that affect the behavior of the vehicle and the reactions of the user. It has been proven that with this type of precipitation there are more accidents than with other phenomena such as snow, fog, hail or wind (partly because it is more common). And one of the keys when it rains is reduced visibility that affects the driver.
We’ve already talked about some tips for driving in the rain, so now let’s focus on how it affects the visual environment from the driver’s position. It is clear that on wet roads there is a greater chance of the tires losing grip and, therefore, suffering an accident. The well-known aquaplaning is also very feared. But many times what is undervalued It is the reduced visibility that usually accompanies driving in the rain.
How does rain affect visibility?
We can start with logic, when it rains the sky is usually overcast and therefore there is less ambient light. It must also be said that the drops when falling reduce horizontal visibility from the user, which would be the maximum distance at which we can distinguish an object. These two factors already affect a lot while driving, but the effect multiplies at night. When the lighting comes from car headlights and streetlights, what rain does is filter part of that light and reduce the illuminated areas. It also changes the visual perception of surfaces or decreases the contrast between objects.
To this we must add that we do all the vision we perceive from inside a vehicle through the windshield and the windows. This is probably what affects the driver the most, since the raindrops on this glass surface cause the light to be distorted and reduce visual performance of the person. Unconsciously, the alert driver tries to pay attention to nearby points on the road, losing perspective and the ability to anticipate some situations.
How to improve visibility in rain?
Let’s start with the tips most related to the vehicle maintenancewith having everything in perfect condition to prevent rather than cure.
- It goes without saying that the windshield must be in good condition, without any damage so that it does not negatively affect visibility. In fact, you can be fined for not complying.
- The wiper It is responsible for evacuating water on rainy days, so the brushes must not be neglected.
- If you live in a rainy area it is not foolish to opt for a water repellent treatment. Using hydrophobic products you can make the drops slip and the visibility through the windows improve considerably.
- TIt is also clear that the windows fog up faster when it rains To avoid this effect, it is advisable to clean the windows and use ventilation correctly: with its specific function, air conditioning and recirculation. There are also some other very useful tricks.
- A very general recommendation for driving in the rain is turn on the car lightsto see and be seen better. Long ones, such as on foggy days, do not improve the situation as they are reflected in raindrops and suspended humidity.
- The fog lights only in extreme situationsfor the good of all users and to avoid the fine that comes with incorrect use. Vision must be accustomed to these conditions and the driver must pay attention to puddles that can cause the dreaded aquaplaning. The type of asphalt also affects the grip.
- Taking into account the above, you must always increase safety distance when driving in the rain. In this way, there is greater reaction time in the event of unforeseen events. To achieve this you must always be aware of the lights of the cars ahead, so you can also anticipate possible dangers by seeing their reactions. Special attention must be paid to large vehicles such as trucks and buses.
- The reason is that its size and mass makes its reactions slower. To this we must add that they are capable of lift large amounts of water when they pass through puddles, something that can scare car drivers who come across them.
- If the situation gets too bad, better to use common sense. There are times when it is better to proceed with great caution until stop in a safe place and wait until the storm passes and conditions improve.
