Why Drivers Should Take Extra Care when Driving
Rain dramatically changes how your car behaves on the road. Reduced visibility, longer stopping distances and the risk of aquaplaning all mean you need to adjust how you drive. Wet roads can double your stopping distance, especially at higher speeds. That’s because your tyres have less grip on the road surface, which makes braking and steering less responsive. The good news though, is that with the right preparation and the right car features, you can stay in control.
Top Tips for Driving Safely in the Rain
Slow Down and Increase your Distance
It sounds simple, but reducing your speed is one of the most effective ways to stay safe in wet weather. Leave at least a four second gap between you and the car in front. If visibility is poor, increase it even more.
Check your Tyres Regularly
Your tyres are your only contact with the road. Worn tyres struggle to clear water effectively, which increases the risk of aquaplaning. Make sure:
- Tread depth is well above the legal minimum of 1.6mm
- Tyre pressures are correct
- There are no cracks or visible damage
If you’re buying a used car from Motor Match, you can rest assured our vehicles are thoroughly checked before they reach the forecourt.
Top Tips for Driving Safely in the Rain
Use your Lights Correctly
Use dipped headlights in heavy rain so other drivers can see you clearly. Avoid full beam in rain or mist, as it can reflect off water droplets and reduce visibility further. Many new cars available at Swansway come with automatic headlights and rain sensing wipers, which take the stress out of changing conditions.
Avoid Sudden Movements
Sharp braking, sudden acceleration or quick steering inputs can cause your car to lose traction. Smooth and steady is always best in wet conditions.
Know What to do if you Aquaplane
If your car starts to aquaplane, don’t panic. Ease off the accelerator gently and keep the steering straight. Avoid braking suddenly, as your tyres regain contact with the road, you’ll feel control return.
Car Features that help in Wet Weather
If you’re considering upgrading your car, there are some brilliant modern features that make driving in the rain safer and more comfortable.
Electronic Stability Control
This system automatically adjusts braking and engine power if it detects a loss of grip. It’s now standard on most new cars and many quality used vehicles.
Anti-Lock Braking System - ABS
ABS prevents your wheels from locking during heavy braking, helping you maintain steering control.
All-Wheel Drive - AWD
All wheel drive vehicles can offer improved traction in wet and slippery conditions, which is worth considering if you regularly drive on rural or poorly drained roads.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
Features like lane assist, adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking can all provide extra peace of mind when visibility is reduced. Our teams at Swansway and Motor Match are always happy to talk you through which models offer these features and help you find the right fit for your driving needs.
Preparing your Car for Rainy Seasons
A little maintenance goes a long way:
- Replace worn wiper blades so your windscreen stays clear
- Top up screen wash with a good quality solution
- Check your brakes are responsive
- Make sure your demisters and heating system work properly
If you’re unsure, contact our aftersales teams and they can help keep your car in top condition.
Thinking About Upgrading your Car?
If your current car doesn’t feel as confident in poor weather as you’d like, it might be time to explore your options. We offer a wide range of new cars with the latest safety technology and if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, Motor Match has a fantastic selection of used cars that are prepared to high standards and ready for the road. Whether you’re after a compact hatchback for commuting, a family SUV with added grip, or something with advanced driver assistance features, we’re here to help you drive with confidence, whatever the weather.
Rainy weather doesn’t have to mean stress behind the wheel, with sensible driving, regular vehicle checks and the right car features, you can stay safe and comfortable even in the heaviest downpour. If you’re ready to upgrade to a car that feels secure in all conditions, explore the latest new car offers at Swansway Motor Group or browse quality used cars at Motor Match today.
Check out our stock of New & Used Vehicles!
- Go to PEUGEOT 2008 1.2 PureTech Allure Euro 6 5dr
£4,990
11.9%APR£104/Month2016 PEUGEOT 2008
1.2 PureTech Allure Euro 6 5dr
- 2016
- OE16POU
- Petrol
- Manual
- 78,946 Miles
- Grey
Motor Match Crewe - Go to Vauxhall Corsa 1.4i ecoFLEX Limited Edition Euro 6 3dr
£5,750
13.6%APR£127/Month2016 Vauxhall Corsa
1.4i ecoFLEX Limited Edition Euro 6 3dr
- 2016
- DG66PJX
- Petrol
- Manual
- 52,464 Miles
- White
Crewe Seat - Go to Toyota Yaris 1.33 Dual VVT-i Icon Euro 6 5dr
This vehicle is currently reserved. We may have a similar vehicle in stock, so please Contact us for more details and we’ll get back to you.
2016 Toyota Yaris
1.33 Dual VVT-i Icon Euro 6 5dr
- 2016
- DN66TTK
- Petrol
- Manual
- 83,600 Miles
- Black
Motor Match Chester - Go to Hyundai I20 1.2 SE Euro 6 3dr
£6,500
11.9%APR£143/Month2017 Hyundai I20
1.2 SE Euro 6 3dr
- 2017
- DC66YMT
- Petrol
- Manual
- 52,546 Miles
- Blue
Motor Match Chester
