What lights to use in the rain: a little guide to driving in the rain

For many drivers, driving has become an inevitable routine. However, what can you do when the weather doesn't cooperate with your plans? The first drops of rain, the heavy atmosphere around, the black clouds, all these are the signs of a storm or rain that can confuse even the most experienced of motorists.

A journey from point A to B, in these unpredictable conditions, requires caution and skill on the part of the driver in order to avoid serious consequences (minor or serious car accidents) for himself and other traffic participants. Safety on wet roads calls for the correct use of lights and windshield wipers, the mastery of an a priori driving technique, but also a general demystified culture about cars and rain, which you will be able to discover further in the following lines.

Contents:

1. Driving in the rain - general aspects
2. How to drive in rain and bad weather
3. Driving in the rain - myths and realities

1. Driving in the rain - general aspects

Reduced visibility during periods of rain is one of the biggest challenges for drivers. Caution is the leitmotif of any new adventure. Therefore, make sure that your car's lights are in perfect working order:

• The meeting lights : it is recommended to use them permanently when the weather conditions require it (during fog, storm, heavy rain, etc.). The basic rule of driving decrees that using the windshield wipers also requires the dipped beam headlights to be on.
• Fog lights: This type of lights is activated by a separate switch from the other headlight controls. The concept behind their introduction into the on-board circuit has to do with providing a new source of road lighting in conditions of heavy fog, heavy snow or torrential rain. Do not forget, however, that their use is determined only by these serious contingencies, and their abuse is unethical for the well-being of other traffic participants.

2. How to drive in rain and bad weather

It is worth pointing out that a good knowledge of your qualities and weaknesses as a driver and of the car is crucial when you get behind the wheel. Fog, rain, sleet and snow cause damage both to good traffic (accidents, terrain surprises, blocked roads/highways, etc.) and to the driver's mind. That is why a self-assessment of the "pros and cons" points as a driver will allow you to make the right decision and avoid the consequences of a storm of hasty thoughts. In this regard, here are some recommendations applied to the driver on a wet road:

1. If the road condition is not urgent, postpone driving until the weather improves. The safety of you and your loved ones is much more important than a bumpy ride.
2. Check that the wipers, front and rear lights and tires are in perfect working order. A well-equipped car will always be ready for any kind of traffic surprises.
3. Slow down when approaching other cars, curves and towns (and especially when visibility is affected by rain or dusk). A consequence of driving at speed in rainy weather is exemplified by the phenomenon of aquaplaning - when the car's tires no longer have contact with the road and you risk losing control of it.
4. Use the dipped beam (low beam) and wipers whenever necessary to avoid being caught by the weather.
5. Make sure that the humidity level inside the car will not prevent you from driving. Rain negatively impacts the driving experience by misting the windshield. The vast majority of cars have a ventilation system function dedicated to this problem. However, if the steam is persistent, try to find a parking space and solve this difficulty with the help of a special cloth for the windshield glass.

When it comes to choosing a car model suitable for the whims of all seasons, certain models will stand out with characteristics won through countless tests recognized by world experts. Here are some examples of the most popular vehicles that passed the driving test in rainy conditions with flying colors: BMW X3 , Volvo XC60 , Subaru Forester/Outback , Toyota Prius , Mercedes-Benz E-Class , etc. However, even if your car was purchased as a result of a car sale and is part of these ranges listed above, keep in mind that the advanced technology (stable traction system, driving assistance, anti-lock braking system , the grip and stability of the tires on the wet road) cannot guarantee you a complete trouble-free journey, only good self-control behind the wheel contributes to this.

3. Driving in the rain - myths and realities

Like any popular field, that of automobiles is loaded with a lot of stories centered on the theme of cars and rain. A first myth mirrors the idea that turning on "Cruise Control" will prevent cars from skidding when it's raining. Conversely, this could lead to hydroplaning and loss of vehicle control.

Another talks about the invincibility of 4x4 traction on wet roads, but like any car, they too can deviate from this propagated myth; the most important thing is to drive carefully and adjust your speed according to the weather conditions regardless of the type of vehicle you are driving. Finally, the third variant illustrates a judgment centered on classic sunglasses; unfortunately, they won't stop the light rays from shining hard on your eyes. However, their auto (polished) version can help you drive at night when it's raining, snowing or foggy.

Whether you're an experienced driver or just starting out on the road, driving in the rain requires more than just turning on the wipers and lights. Rather, it is the conjuncture of viable driving techniques, proper car equipment preparation, and a deep understanding of weather conditions. Be prepared to face the challenges of capricious weather and ensure your journey on an enlightened road of knowledge and caution!

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