Driving Your Kia in Wet Weather

Springtime might mean warmer weather, but we know it can also mean more rain here in Maryland. Nobody enjoys driving their car in wet weather. But there are some essential steps that you can take to help ensure that you and your car can handle even the most torrential downpour. Read on to find out how your Kia dealer can help you stay safe, whatever the weather.

Ask Your Kia Dealer for a Seasonal Tune-Up

One of the best ways to protect your car against unexpected conditions is to ensure you’re prepared, so it’s worth putting effort into ensuring you’re equipped for every eventuality. Schedule a service at the change of the seasons to make sure that your vehicle is in good working order and prepared for the months ahead.

 It’s vital to ensure that your windshield wiper blades are fresh and effective and that your windshield washer fluid is filled, to help guarantee the best visibility. Make sure that all your lights, including signaling lights, are working perfectly so that other drivers can see you when visibility is poor. And ask about having your tires checked so that the tread and inflation give you the best traction on a wet road.

Modify Your Driving to Accommodate Conditions

Because of poor visibility and slick roads, driving in wet conditions increases your chances of an accident. Therefore, you must change your regular driving habits if you find yourself out when it’s wet. Some key points to follow are:

• Slow down to help avoid hydroplaning
• Leave more space between the vehicle in front 
• Always use your headlights
• Always use your windshield wipers
• Use the defrost to help avoid windshield fog
• Avoid sudden movements and hard braking
• Steer clear of large vehicles that cause spray
• Check carefully before all maneuvers

Know What To Do If You Hydroplane or Skid

When the roads are very slick, your tires might start losing their grip on the surface. This might cause skidding, or your wheels could lose contact with the road surface altogether and travel on the film of water on top of the road. This is known as hydroplaning, and driving more slowly in the rain is important to help reduce the risk of this happening.

Skidding and hydroplaning can be frightening, so knowing what to do at the moment is important. If you skid, avoid slamming on the brakes and steer in your desired direction. If you hydroplane, ease your foot off the gas, avoid trying to steer, and allow your vehicle to slow down and regain control.

The best thing is to avoid driving in poor weather at all if possible, but if you follow these tips, you’ll be more confident in your ability to handle the conditions. And if it’s a nice day, you can take the opportunity to visit us at DARCARS Kia of Temple Hills and enjoy browsing our latest inventory.

Tags: Avoid sudden movements and hard braking, Leave more space between the vehicle in front, Slow down to help avoid hydroplaning, Steer clear of large vehicles that cause spray
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