Tips For Driving Safely In Summer Storms | Albany, NY

Aug 11, 2023

Summer is winding down, and Autumn is almost here! That means that we are getting ready to enter hurricane season, and even though we won’t be too affected up here in the Capital District, doesn’t mean we won’t be getting some heavy rains as a result. So this week we want to help ensure that our customers stay safe on the road in all conditions. Below you will find tips and tricks for safely driving through heavy storms/ flooding. And if you find that your vehicle needs repairs or even just a tune-up, let our team help you gain better peace of mind behind the wheel! Just schedule a test drive and stop into Destination Nissan!

Driving in heavy rain:

Turn your headlights on – the Highway Code says you must use them when visibility is seriously reduced
Use fog lights if you like, but switch them off when visibility improves.
Leave twice as much space between you and the car in front – it takes longer to stop in the wet.
If your steering feels light due to hydroplaning, ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually.
If you break down don’t prop the bonnet open while you wait. Rain-soaked electrics can make it harder to start the engine.

Driving during floods and standing water:

Try to avoid standing water if you can.
Don’t drive into flood water that’s moving or more than 4 inches deep. Let approaching cars pass first if you are unsure of the depth
Drive slowly and steadily so you don’t make a bow wave.
Test your brakes as soon as you can afterward. Water can have a damaging effect on brakes, make sure they are working properly before you continue to drive
Fast-moving water is very powerful: if strong enough your car could be swept away. Find an alternate route if the water is moving too fast to pass-through

Watch out for: