With the rainy season just around the corner, it's important that you start preparing for the changing road conditions. To help you conquer the wet roads, use these safe driving tips.

Tips for Driving in Rainy Weather

If you're not a fan of driving, you may be even less of a fan of driving in the rain. Unfortunately, it must be done. If you're dreading the upcoming rainy season, there are plenty of ways to prepare for it. Below are some useful tips to help you make it through the rainy season safely and with minimal stress.

Avoid Going Out

If the weather isn't looking great, avoid going out when possible. You may not be able to avoid going to work, but going to the store or catching up with friends can wait. If it's pouring outside, don't take any chances. If possible, wait it out until the rain has stopped or postpone your plans for another time that is less dangerous. You can also avoid getting stuck in stormy weather by checking the forecast before you leave your home.

Proper Car Maintenance

Your car will need some help preparing for the rainy weather as well, so forget about it. Essential car maintenance will include checking on your car's tires. Since these can make a huge difference on your drives, you want to be sure they're still properly inflated and that they have plenty of tread left. If the tread is looking very worn, now is a good time to get a new set. After this, check on your car's windshield wipers. If these are looking and feeling dry or brittle, they won't be able to do much when called into action. Replace these as soon as you can so your visibility isn't compromised on a rainy day.

Take It Slow

You may be tempted to race down the road at the posted speed limit, but this isn't ideal. That speed limit is for when road conditions are perfect, but they certainly won't be perfect if it's rainy out. Instead, take the proper precautions and slow down. If you need to make it somewhere by a certain hour, give yourself more time to get there safely. The last thing you want to do it speed down a wet and slippery road. A synthetic oil change in Hagerstown can help your car stay in better shape for longer. Using a quality oil like AMSOIL's Signature Series 0W-40 Synthetic Motor Oil will ensure your engine stays in great shape for a long time. You can find even more great products like this by contacting the friendly oil pros at ALF Marketing. Give them a call at (301) 416-0575 to learn more or to place your order.

Turn on Your Lights

Turning on your headlights while driving through the rain is an absolute must. Do your best to remember to turn these on even if it's not super dark on the road. Using your headlights can make visibility better, helping you feel safer and more at ease. When you turn these on, your taillights will also turn on which makes it easier for other drivers to see you. Now more than ever, don't forget to use your turn signals so that other drivers are aware of whatever move you're making next.

Give Yourself Space

You may leave plenty of space between you and other cars on normal days, but this is more important on rainy days. Avoid getting to close to the car in front of you so that you have plenty of time to react and stop safely should they encounter a problem. More space is crucial because the roads will be wet and slippery, making it harder to come to a smooth and timely stop. On top of this, be sure to keep an eye on the cars in other lanes. Don't lose sight of your blind spot and allow yourself plenty of space to change lanes and turn.

Don't Drive Into Standing Water

Standing water may not seem like a big deal, but you never know how deep it actually is. If possible, avoid driving over it so that you don't put your car and yourself at risk. If the water is even a few inches deep, your car can hydroplane. Not only is this scary, but it can turn dangerous very fast. If a pothole is hiding in that water, you can do some serious damage to your car. Don't risk it and avoid driving over pools of water.

Prepare Your Car With a Synthetic Oil Change in Hagerstown

Give your car a synthetic oil change in Hagerstown to keep your engine in top shape. To find the right oil for your engine, feel free to contact the friendly oil pros at ALF Marketing. Give them a call at (301) 416-0575 to learn more or to place your order.