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PROVIDENCE JOURNAL | providencejournal.com | Thursday, July 28, 2016 S1

Soaked But SafeHow to stay safe when

driving in wet weather

Roads Less TraveledMust-see scenic roads

for your next road trip

Protecting What’s YoursSimple maintenance tips to

keep your ride running strong

on the Road

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S2 Thursday, July 28, 2016 | PROVIDENCE JOURNAL | providencejournal.com

Enjoy some scenic roads

Road trips have been part of popular culture for decades. Featured prominently in movies and books such as “On the

Road,” “Rain Man” and “Easy Rider,” road trips with friends or family tend to leave indelible marks.

Remarkable road trips are made more so by the company shared along the way and the scenic and historical roadways traversed to reach a destination. Travelers embarking on road trips in Canada or the United States should consider including some of the following roadways in their travel plans.

Haines Highway: If your adventures take you through Alaska, there is plenty of legendary scenery to take in. The backdrop along the Haines Highway is sensational, but this stretch of roadway also offers views of the largest congregations of bald eagles in the

world. It has been dubbed “The Valley of the Eagles.”

Route 66: Now known as “Historic Route 66,” this famed road stretches from Los Angeles to Chicago, cutting a path through a vast portion of America’s heartland. Some say driving along 66 is an adventure in American history and that the road embodies the best of the United States.

Pacific Coast Highway: While not the fastest way to travel, this winding road that hugs the California coast owes its popularity to stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s difficult to avoid being swept up by the breathtaking views of rock formations, waves and cliffs.

Highway 99: Referred to as the Sea to the Sky Highway, this roadway in British Columbia begins outside of Vancouver and rises up into the mountains. This

road trip is full of various climate zones, mountains, lakes and rivers. The 700-meter rock face of “The Chief” also is a popular draw.

Columbia River Highway: The first paved road in the northwestern United States, Columbia River Highway also is the first scenic highway in America. It is renowned for being a portion of the original Oregon Trail, and its 70 miles offers spectacular views year-round.

Overseas Highway: This impressive roadway extends more than 100 miles from Key Largo to Key West, Florida, linking all of the islands that comprise the Florida Keys. The Overseas Highway includes a seven-mile bridge across the water.

Highway 12: This route in Utah offers impressive views of natural features. Attractions include the Bryce Canyon,

Red Canyon and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

Loess Hills Trail: Loesses, which are hills formed from silt, give land alongside this trail in Iowa interesting topography and varied flora. Fall foliage here has been formally qualified as a National Natural Landmark.

Highways 44 and 240: These routes in South Dakota take travelers through the area known as the Badlands, giving adventurers a glimpse of the American West. Badlands National Park, Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial are other attractions to take in while in the area.

North America is filled with many scenic roadways perfect for road trips, which remain one of the best ways to explore and experience the United States and Canada.

By Metro Editorial Services

Road trips enable travelers to discover the country’s wonders up close.

4 ways to make your vehicle green

Many new vehicles are made with the environment in mind, as more and more drivers are embracing

eco-friendly features that reduce the carbon footprints of their vehicles. But motorists need not purchase new cars to make their driving habits more environmentally friendly. The following are a handful of steps drivers can take to protect the environment regardless of how new or old their vehicles are.

1. Maintain your vehicleEven if your car or truck has no eco-friendly features designed to reduce fuel consumption and cut down on emissions, that does not mean the vehicle cannot be more fuel-efficient or produce fewer emissions.

Adhering to the maintenance schedule recommended in your vehicle owner’s manual can conserve fuel and cut back on potentially harmful emissions. Well-maintained vehicles burn less fuel, as they don’t force engines and other components to work as hard during operation as vehicles that have not been taken care of. Replace worn down or dirty spark plugs, which misfire and waste fuel, and fuel and air filters once they are no longer operating at peak capacity. Address any issues that arise with your vehicle’s emissions systems immediately, visiting your mechanic if the vehicle seems to be sputtering or emitting any abnormal fumes.

2. Slow downDriving above the speed limit is not just dangerous but potentially harmful to the environment as well. According

the United States Department of Energy, each five miles per hour drivers drive over 50 miles per hour is akin to adding an additional $0.14 per gallon for gas. That’s because driving above 50 miles per hour is far less fuel-efficient than driving below that figure. So slowing down when posted speed limits mandate driving 50 miles per hour or slower is not just safer and more eco-friendly, it’s better for your wallet as well.

3. Keep cargo off the roofWhen you must haul cargo, keep that cargo in rear-mount cargo boxes or the backseat or trunk of your car rather than the roof. Rooftop cargo boxes make vehicles less aerodynamic, reducing highway fuel economy by as much as 17 percent according to the U.S. DOE. By comparison, rear-

mount cargo boxes reduce highway fuel economy by just 2 to 5 percent. If you haul cargo in your trunk, remove items when your trip is complete, as excess, unnecessary weight in the car will reduce its fuel efficiency.

4. Inspect the gas capFew drivers may think to examine their gas caps while filling up at the pump, but such an inspection may reveal cracks or other damage that are wasting fuel. When gas caps are cracked, loose or damaged, fuel can escape gas tanks as a vapor, wasting fuel and contributing to emissions. If the cap is in need of replacement, consult your mechanic, the dealer who sold you your vehicle or the vehicle manufacturer.

ECO-FRIENDLY



Vacations are a great way to recharge and get some time away from the daily grind. While many working men and women

take one or two vacations per year, recreational vehicle owners can travel more often without breaking the bank.

Recreational vehicles, or RVs, are often referred to as campers or motor homes. Equipped with many amenities, ranging from kitchens to multiple sleeping areas to entertainment spaces, RVs offer many of the comforts of home.

The Recreational Vehicle Industry Association says RV ownership is currently at an all-time high. According to Dr. Richard Curtin, RV industry analyst and director of consumer surveys at the University of Michigan, 8.9 million households now own an RV. That’s up from 7.9 million in 2005.

Drivers considering buying an RV may have many questions about these increasingly popular vehicles. RVs come in two main types: motorized and towable. Understanding the differences between the two and the various subcategories of RV can help drivers make the most informed decisions when purchasing their RVs.

MOTORIZEDMotorized RVs are broken down by class, including class A, B and C. The distinction between the classes of RV is based on size.

Class A: This class of motor home is very large and offers all of the comforts you’d expect from home. Many people who purchase a class A RV plan to travel all year long. Slide-outs can expand the living area when parked, and full bathrooms, complete kitchens and more are the norm. Because of their size, class A RVs tend to

be the most expensive and may be more vehicle than many people can afford. Their large size (many look like a bus on the road) can make them difficult to navigate for novices.

Class B: Class B RVs are often referred to as “van conversions.” Class B are the smallest, fully enclosed campers available in the motorized category. Living space is limited in these RVs, but economy and versatility make them quite popular. Usually these campers can sleep between two and four people.

Class C: Class C RVs are a compromise between types A and B. Class C are mid-sized with a driver’s compartment similar to a van and a larger box in the back for the living area. Some come with a sleeping bunk above the cab. Depending on the floor plan, class C campers can sleep up to 10 people.

TOWABLETowable RVs are another option and can be more affordable because they can be pulled behind your existing vehicle.

Travel trailers: Travel trailers look similar to traditional motorized RVs but without the driving cab. They can be hitched to the back of a vehicle. Travel trailers are popular because of their versatility. Travel trailers can be ideal for those with limited budgets but the desire to have a self-contained unit.

Pop-up: Folding camping trailers, or pop-up trailers, are inexpensive and lightweight. They provide many of the conveniences found in a basic travel trailer but in a smaller size.

Fifth-wheel: If you own a pickup truck, a fifth-wheel trailer may be good for you. These hitch to the top of the pickup bed and have similar features to a traditional travel trailer.

On theBy Metro Editorial Services

RVs make great investments for men and women who love the open road. They also are a great way to take the entire family on an affordable and memorable vacation.

ROAD

Wash your car like a pro to

protect its value

Vehicle owners know maintaining a vehicle can be a lot of work. Taking the time to properly care for a vehicle can prolong its life expectancy and help owners avoid

breakdowns and other issues along the way.

Regular washing is an aspect of vehicle maintenance that some may classify as a purely cosmetic benefit. Certainly a car wash can keep the vehicle looking its best, but there are other advantages to washing as well. Washing offers preventative maintenance for the car’s paint and can help prevent rust and corrosion resulting from dirt, acid rain and road salt. Rust can compromise hydraulic brake and fuel lines, as well as many moving parts in the chassis and frame. Corrosion of electrical connectors and other parts under the hood can lead to leaks, electrical shorts and a host of additional problems. It’s easy to see how washing the car is more essential than one might have suspected.

If you live in an area with a high amount of dust or industry, you may need to wash your car as frequently as once a week. Drivers who live along or near coastal areas may need to wash their vehicles frequently to combat sea salt buildup. Garage-kept vehicles may be able to go longer between washes, but in general washing a vehicle every two to three weeks is a good rule of thumb. In addition, a good sealant will protect the paint and other trims throughout the year.


WASHCAR

solution. This will preserve the car’s finish better than other homemade soaps. Avoid using dishwashing liquid, which can strip protective wax coatings.

when cleaning off bugs, sap and bird droppings that may stick to the paint and become difficult to remove over time.

washing. Heat speeds up the drying of soap and water and can make it more difficult to clean.

Resist the urge to move the sponge in circles as you clean. Doing so can create noticeable swirl scratch marks. Instead, move the sponge lengthwise across the body panels and hood.

the sponge or washing mitt so that dirt is not mixed into the clean, sudsy water.

Consumer Reports suggests using a soft squeegee to remove most of the water on the body of the car after washing and rinsing. Blot up any extra water with a chamois.

to ensure it has maximum protection. In between, apply a liquid spray wax to touch up spots. Water beading is not an ideal indicator of whether or not the car needs a coat of wax.

Vacuum the carpets regularly to prevent ground-in dirt and routinely clean the upholstery with a product specific to your vehicle’s interior, whether that interior is leather or fabric.

Protecting a vehicle investment involves keeping the car clean. Know the right ways to help a car or truck look and perform like new.

THE FOLLOWING ARE SOME OTHER CAR-WASH TIPS TO FOLLOW.


Driving today is different than it might have been when many motorists first earned their drivers’ licenses. As a result,

safe driving techniques have changed. Learning these changes and adjusting driving habits can keep motorists and their passengers safe.

WATCH THE CLOCKOlder guidelines indicated keeping hands on the steering wheel at the positions of 10 and 2 if you were imagining it as a clock. New information indicates this can be dangerous to the arms and hands should the air bag deploy in a crash. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and AAA now say you should grip the

wheel at the 9 and 3 positions, which safely allows drivers to maintain control of their vehicles.

CHANGE YOUR TURNSAir bag safety also comes into play when making turns. Rather than the formerly taught way of hand-over-hand turning, drivers should push with one hand and pull with the other to steer the wheel — safely keeping their hands away from the plastic casing and the possible release of heat and pressure from an exploding air bag.

USE HAZARD LIGHTS ONLY WHEN REAL HAZARDS ARE ENCOUNTEREDSome people are very generous in their use of hazard lights, turning them on


DRIVING RULES

when double-parking, in bad weather or when they are carrying a heavy load. Various states and areas have specific laws governing the use of hazard lights, including when and when not to use them. Hazard lights may inadvertently put drivers in danger because they can override turning signals. Some other drivers have become so accustomed to seeing hazard lights that they may not take them seriously. Esurance suggests checking local laws to determine which situations warrant using hazard lights.

DON’T BLOCK THE “FAST LANE” The far-left lane has long been considered the passing lane. Although some police departments have become more lenient in allowing drivers to actually stay in the left lane, it’s still courteous to use it as infrequently as possible. When you do find yourself inthe left lane, recognize that you should maintain highway speed or accelerate slightly to get around the car you need to pass. Driving slowly in the left lane can compromise your own safety and that of your passengers and fellow drivers.

ANTICIPATE ROAD CONDITIONSThere are differences between driving on rural roads, paved roads and heavily trafficked highways, especially during inclement weather or when encountering adverse conditions. There’s no magic speed or technique that is ideal all of the time. Drivers need to learn to adapt to the conditions to facilitate safe passage. Keep in mind that it can be difficult to stop on gravel, wet roadways or those covered with leaves.

AVOID THE BIG RUSHAlways try to leave extra time to reach a destination. This way you will not have to speed or make tricky maneuvers to get to an appointment on time. Rushing around can lead to distractions or unsafe practices. Reduce your accident risk by building extra time into your trip.

Driving rules are

not static, and drivers

should stay current on

practices that are safe

and those that are no

longer correct to use on

the roadways.

NEW

Driving vacations are popular for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is flexibility. Such

excursions are not restricted by flight schedules, and travelers often feel as though they have more control over their trips when traveling by car rather than traveling by air. Road trips also can save travelers money. In addition to sharing the road with a few friends and family members, road trip enthusiasts can employ several other strategies to enjoy a vacation that’s both frugal and fun.

Downsize your vehicle. While prices at the pump have been more driver-friendly in recent months, road trippers who drive large sedans, trucks or SUVs might be able to save money by driving smaller vehicles during their trips. Especially small vehicles may be impractical and uncomfortable depending on the number of people who are making the trip, but mid-size vehicles with ample storage space tend to be more fuel-efficient than large trucks or SUVs. If someone in your traveling party drives such a vehicle and it’s in good shape, take that car instead of a larger alternative.

Get a tuneup. Another way to save money on your road trip is to get a vehicle tuneup in the days before your trip is set to begin. Let your mechanic know you are planning a road trip and ask that a full diagnostic test be conducted to make sure everything is running efficiently. An air filter nearing its expiration date may be worth replacing, as a new filter will help to save money on fuel. In addition, replace tires with worn tread, as old or inadequately inflated tires will force the engine to work harder, wasting fuel and costing you and your fellow travelers money along the way.

Consider various types of lodging. Road trippers who plan well in advance may be able to find great deals on lodging, but too much planning may cost travelers some of the flexibility and freedom they were hoping to enjoy during their vacations. Weather permitting, campsites can be unique and affordable places to stay. When planning your routes, choose roadways that are close to popular campsites, avoiding campsites that are too remote, as such sites may cost you in time and fuel what you’re saving on lodging. If campsites are unavailable, download hotel website apps on your phone and use these apps to find affordable rooms as you go.

Simply showing up to hotels without reservations is unlikely to yield great rates, but apps may offer discounted rates on rooms hotels are simply looking to fill at the last minute.

Bring your own food. Fuel, lodging and food tend to be the three biggest expenses on driving vacations. Travelers who bring their own food can save a substantial amount of money and maintain some control over what they eat. That’s a big benefit for men and women who like to eat healthy and prefer to avoid the fast food fare that tends to be the only options available at rest stops.


ROAD TRIP

Road trips make for

great vacations, and

travelers can take

many steps to make

such excursions more

affordable without

sacrificing fun.

fun and frugal


New automobiles are one of the biggest investments many consumers will ever make. Buyers typically look to get the best price on new vehicles, and when buyers begin their search for new

vehicles can influence just how great a deal they get. Timing your new car purchase correctly can save you hundreds and sometimes thousands of dollars. Automotive information experts, such as JD Power and Associates and Edmunds.com, note that certain times of the year may be best for cutting a deal.

End of yearOne of the best and most consistent times to get a great deal on a new car is the end of the year. This is when car dealerships are trying to move the greatest number of vehicles to increase unit sales and annual revenue numbers. In addition, many dealers have annual quotas and offer bonuses to salespeople who meet certain annual sales figures. If you can wait until the end of December to make your purchase, you very well may drive off the lot with a great deal.

End of model yearNew model year vehicles begin to arrive at dealerships sometime between the end of summer and the beginning of autumn. That means the current year models still on the lot become a lot less desirable to customers eagerly awaiting next year’s vehicles. Dealerships are willing to negotiate on the older models and may offer customers cash rebates to make room for the new inventory.

End of design cycleFrom time to time, auto manufacturers roll out a newly designed car under the same name. The older body type then becomes less desirable, and that is when drivers can get bargains on cars that may have become outdated seemingly overnight. If you’re more interested in saving money than setting trends, wait until the end of a car’s design cycle to buy. You can save even more if a particular model is being phased out entirely.

End of the monthSimilar to end of year deals, come the end of the month, salespeople and dealers are trying to sell as many vehicles as possible in an effort to qualify for bonuses from auto manufacturers. If you can’t wait until the end of the year to buy, consider the end of the month.

Save money on your next vehicle by shopping at the right times.


When to buy aNEW CAR

Children require a lot of care and constant supervision when they are young. Such is the reason

reports of children being left in cars are so surprising and generate so much outrage.

Many parents would never intentionally put their youngsters in harm’s way, but leaving a child in an unattended vehicle — even if it’s just for a few minutes — can be incredibly dangerous. Many states even consider such behavior a crime.

Since 1998, 611 children have died from hyperthermia, or heat stroke, which resulted from the kids having been left in hot cars. Consumer Reports notes that more than 50 percent of those deaths were children under the age of 2.

Heat is not the only danger children face when left in cars. Cold cars can be equally dangerous. Young children cannot regulate their body temperature very well. The University of Rochester Medical Center says babies can’t adjust to temperature changes as well as adults, and

infants can lose heat rapidly, nearly four times faster than adults. Healthy newborns may not be able to keep their bodies warm if the environment around them is too cold. On cold, snowy days, babies may need a constant flow of heat in the car to remain comfortable.

Weather and temperature are not the only dangers kids face when left alone in cars. Strangulation from safety belts, entrapment in doors and windows and falls from open windows also may occur when kids are left in cars unsupervised. Some

dexterous children may climb into the driver’s seat and engage the gear shift, causing the vehicle to move. Abduction is another potential danger, as unattended children in cars are potential targets for kidnappers.

Never leave a child unattended in a car. Parents prone to forgetfulness can put a stuffed animal on the front seat to serve as a reminder that they have kids in tow or place a purse or wallet on the backseat so they must look in the back of the car before exiting their vehicles.


of leaving kids in cars

Dangers


MAINTENANCEMotor vehicles are sizable

investments that, for many people, trail only homes and

educations in terms of the biggest expenses they will ever have. So it’s in drivers’ best interests to take every step possible to protect their investments and keep their vehicles running smoothly as long as possible. While knowledgeable mechanics can be invaluable resources, drivers can take several minor, simple steps to keep their cars running smoothly for years to come.

Few drivers take the time to look at their vehicles once those vehicles lose their new car luster. But visual inspections can help drivers find problems that, though minor, may impact their vehicles’ performance. For example, a routine examination of vehicle tires can indicate if those tires are properly inflated. Poorly inflated tires can decrease fuel efficiency and affect the overall safety of a vehicle. If tires appear flat, check their pressure and inflate them to the levels listed in your owner’s manual.

Another telltale and easily identifiable sign that a vehicle needs some maintenance is the sight of fluids beneath the car. If you notice puddles or stains beneath where you normally park your car, your vehicle may be leaking fluids. Note the color and consistency of the fluid and then call your mechanic to determine which fluid is leaking and how to fix the problem.

recommended maintenance schedules.Whether your vehicle is brand new or has some tread on its tire, consult the owner’s manual for manufacturer recommendations with regard to changing fluids and replacing filters. Many recent models can now be driven roughly 5,000 miles before they need an oil change, but check your owner’s manual for the guidelines established by your vehicle’s manufacturer, and adhere to that schedule religiously. If you drive an older car, recognize that the vehicle may benefit from more frequent oil changes and tuneups. In addition, read the manual for additional guidelines, such as how often to replace the air filter, headlight, turn signal and brake lamps, windshield wipers, and other vehicle parts that can wear down over time.

While many drivers feel that the area beneath their vehicles’ hoods is best left to the professionals, you can still lift up the hood every so often to see if there are any glaring problems that demand attention. Inspect rubber belts for signs of wear and tear, and know that such belts may need to be replaced every 50,000 miles or even more frequently depending on your driving habits. Lifting the hood is also necessary when checking fluid levels, which you should check periodically and before and after any long trips. Drivers who notice or suspect damage when performing simple vehicle maintenance should bring these concerns to the attention of their mechanics as soon as possible.


keep your ride running strong

Vehicles rely on many c o m p o n e n t s w o r k i n g harmoniously to function at optimal capacity. Any number

of systems can go wrong, and oftentimes the first indication that something has gone awry is an illuminated dashboard signal.

One such signal is the “check engine” light. Many drivers have little idea what to do when this indicator lights up, and this light can cause some anxiety. According to Consumer Reports, a check engine light turning on does not usually require immediate action. However, it does mean that you should make an appointment to have the vehicle inspected for potential problems.

Check engine lights are part of a car’s onboard diagnostics. The light turning on may indicate something minor, such as a loose fuel cap, or something more serious like a misfiring engine. When the light turns on, drivers wondering why may want to see if the answer is related to one of the following issues.

1. Loose gas cap: Fuel vapors can leak out and air can get in when the fuel cap isn’t secured correctly. This can compromise the fuel system and make the check engine light come on. Take off the cap and then reseal it to see if that alleviates the problem. Cracked caps will need to be replaced.

A faulty or clogged sensor may not provide the right information about unburned oxygen from the vehicle’s exhaust. This sensor monitors how much fuel is burned. Compromised data can cause a decrease in fuel efficiency. Some do-it-yourselfers can replace an oxygen sensor on their own, but those who can’t should have the issue addressed immediately by a professional.

3. Too much speed or load:Towing a trailer or another heavy item may put strain on the vehicle and cause the light to come on because of loss of power. Lightening the load and reducing speed can help fix the problem. Always

consult with the owner’s manual to determine the towing capacity of your vehicle. 4. Short or faulty code:Computers aren’t always fool-proof, and sometimes an electrical short or another similar problem can cause a light to come on. Bring the vehicle to an automotive supply store. Such stores typically have diagnostics tools that can be hooked into the car’s computer and provide a more detailed understanding of what is triggering the check engine indicator. In many cases, a steady check engine light is not a serious concern. However, when such a light comes on, drivers should try to find out why as soon as possible.


Engine Light WARNINGS


In the summer of 2015, a video of dozens of cars swerving to avoid a family of ducks crossing a busy Minnesota freeway went viral. While no people or ducks were injured in that

incident, impromptu animal crossings are a potential hazard on roadways where drivers are unaccustomed to sharing the road with four-legged counterparts. In the wake of the video, state officials urged drivers not to stop for animals because of the hazards posed by sudden stopping.

Drivers may have mixed feelings on whether or not to put their lives in jeopardy to save an errant animal, but sometimes there is little time to make a decision. As more neighborhoods and roadways infringe on natural habitats, incidents of animals on the roadways figure to increase. Deer, moose, elk, and smaller animals can wander out onto busy roads, and there’s no foolproof way to prevent it.

Experts advise drivers to remain in their lanes and to attempt to slow down as quickly as possible when encountering animals on the road. Move slowly in the direction the animal was coming from if it’s safe, as animal instinct is to dart out in the direction it was going.

Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Scan the edges of the road to see if animals are present. Dawn and dusk are key times for animals to be on the move looking for food. Autumn is both hunting and mating season for deer, and they tend to travel a lot during this time of year.

Obey speed limits and take signs warning of animal crossing hotspots seriously.

Should you hit an animal, do not exit the car and approach it. Injured animals can be dangerous, with pain driving them to flail, kick or bite.

Sharing roadways with animals is tricky. Remaining alert, slowing down in highly populated wildlife areas and avoiding swerving can reduce risk of accident or injury.


ENCOUNTERING

ANIMALSon the road

According to State Farm Insurance, roughly 1.5 million animal-car accidents occur each year, resulting in 10,000 injuries, 150 deaths and $2,500 in property damage on average. Knowing what to do when encountering animals on the road can help drivers avoid accidents and injuries.

Drivers must modify their driving habits when weather compromises their visibility and makes road conditions unsafe. Rain can fall any time of year, but tends to be most problematic in spring.

According to the Federal Highway Administration, wet roadways, and rain in particular, are the main cause of weather-related vehicle crashes.

To drive safely in the rain and avoid accidents, drivers should follow certain precautions.

Maintain windshield wipers. Inspect and, if necessary change windshield wipers regularly to ensure they are working optimally. Always test wipers before driving in rainy weather.

Turn on lights with wipers. Reduced visibility is a major contributor to wet-weather accidents. Drivers’ views may be hampered by falling precipitation and glare from wet roadways. Cloudy

conditions and fog also compromise visibility. When using windshield wipers, turn on your headlights as well. This makes your vehicle more visible to other motorists and improves your own ability to see the road and pedestrians.

Recognize changing road conditions. Roadways accum-ulate oil and engine f luids that can float in rainwater, creating sl ippery road surfaces. This is usually a problem during the first few hours of a rainstorm or in areas that receive little precipitation and then are subjected to downpours. These fluids make rain-soaked roads even more slippery. Slow down, leave more room between vehicles and try driving in the tracks left by vehicles ahead.

Reduce speed. The automotive group AAA says hydroplaning, when the tires rise up on a film of water, can occur with as little as

1⁄12 inch of water on the road.

The group goes on to say that tires have to displace a gallon of water per second to keep the rubber meeting the road. New tires can still lose some contact with the roadway, even at a speed as low as 35 mph. Therefore, reducing speed and avoiding hard braking and turning sharply can help keep the

rubber of the tire meeting the road.

Rely on the defogger. Use the car’s windshield defroster/defogger to improve visibility. Turn it on early and keep it on until the rain has stopped and visibility has improved.

Skids can be frightening, but when skidding, resist any temptation to slam on the breaks. Instead, continue to look and drive in the direction you want to go and slowly ease up on the accelerator.

It’s important to maintain control over the vehicle in rainy conditions, so avoid using cruise control.

Maintain tires. Proper inflation and tire tread levels can improve traction. AAA recommends checking tread depth by inserting a quarter upside down into the tire groove. If you can see above Washington’s head, start shopping for new tires.

Avoid other distractions. Distracted driving can be hazardous during good road conditions and even more dangerous when visibility and other factors are compromised.


STAY SAFEdriving in wet weatherdriving in wet weather

The National Highway Traffic Safety

Administration notes that, between

2004 and 2013, rain

caused 573,784 crashes.

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