In winter, heavy rain, thunderstorms are common, they come suddenly and make more difficult the driving. The extreme weather conditions require full attention from drivers. Sometimes the best driving decisions is that you don’t go, until the weather doesn’t turn better, but of course this option isn’t always possible.
Driving in heavy rain
In addition the heavy rainfall will limit the visibility conditions, drivers have to contend with aquaplaning. The aquaplaning occurs if you drive too fast in the heavy rain and the tires of the car slide on the water layer, instead of the road surface. Because of steering and braking will be heavy, and you could lose control of the vehicle. Thus, driving in rain is a scary thing, especially at night. It’s hard to look out the window, and the other car’s light only makes it more difficult.
How can you avoid accidents?
1. Keep both hands on the steering wheel
Keep away from all distractions: cell phone, radio, etc .. Focus on the road, use the internal and side mirrors. So you can get a 360-degree image of what is happening around you: mud, fallen trees, electric wire, hanging wire, coming danger, etc.
2. Turn on the lights
In many countries, in raining it’s mandatory to turn on the headlights, even in daylight. This makes it easier to see what’s in front of you.
3. Keep at least 3-4 cars long following distance
You never know what the other drivers will do or what will happen. In wet road the breaking takes s about three times longer than in dry, keep this in mind.
4. Don’t exceed the speed limit
Instead, drive more slowly and comfortably, and be aware in advance.
5. Make sure your tires are in good condition
Be aware that the maximum speed you drive with, directly linked to the rubber. The radial tire have better grip than the old, polyester tires, but they can still lose their grip on wet road.
6. Be aware of aquaplaning
In aquaplaning the car move on top of the water and the tires only contact with the ground a very little space. The adhesion at this time is significantly reduced. To safely get out of aquaplaning, step down the gas pedal and keep the steering wheel straight or lightly roll in the corresponding direction. Don’t do any sudden movement and stay calm.
7. Avoid flooded roads
Never drive through standing or running water, unless you have no other choice, or if you are able to judge the depth of water (someone has passed on in front of you). The water can submersible the engine, which may stop, or deep water can swept away the car from the road.
8. Switch on the dehumidifier when the glass begins to fog
In hot, muggy weather the air-conditioned air is usually quickly remove moisture from the window as the plain air.
9. You have to know that wet road may affects the brakes
Wet brakes are particularly prone to reduce the braking power.
10. Pay attention to the potholes, puddles
The water which accumulated in puddles in low areas can also infest the sidewalk. On highways, where there are most of the traffic, you can also discover large puddles that you may avoid with band switching.
11. Use product against rain
Wipe water drops on the side windows and mirrors.
12. At night, be especially careful in the rain
Bikers and dark-colored cars can easily lost among the glittering raindrops.
Driving in strong winds
The wind may look a minor risk factor, but it requires special attention from drivers. Strong crosswinds can occur anywhere, but the most common is in open areas. Problem areas can be the highway overpasses, tunnels, between the mountains (in mountainous area), that the wind can use as a tunnel.
Follow these tips to travel safely in strong winds:
- Go ahead the gusts: increase your attention in strong wind areas.
- Pay attention to the larger vehicles: on the one hand the larger vehicles absorb the wind, so when you overtake them, you can feel a strong boost. On the other hand, in strong winds the truck drivers can keep their car in the lane difficult, and therefore you approach them with more caution.
- Keep the car firmly: both hands be on the wheel, especially when the wind starts to move the car.
Before you go:
- Consider that the travel is essential? If not, can you postponed until the rain will subside?
- Plan your route in advance, especially in areas which are prone to floods.
- Add information to the relatives and friends of the planned route and the expected time of arrival and if possible, do not travel alone.
- Check that the wiper blades, they are fully operational? If not, replace them.
- Make sure that your equipment is well. (The lights operate and you know that you will need more fuel than in normal driving conditions)
- Be sure to bring your mobile phone.
Take a rental car
Since 1989, Z & X Drivers Rentals Ltd has been providing excellent service and quality vehicles throughout the Paphos area and is a leader in the local Cyprus car rental. Our customer service team will be very happy to answer any questions you have about Car Rentals Cyprus.
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Contact Details
Our customer service team will be very happy to answer any questions you have about Car Rentals Cyprus therefore please do not hesitate to get in touch by phone, email or post.
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Address: Shop 1, Central Park Residences, 6 April 1st Street 8011, Paphos Cyprus
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Support Phone: +357 26 945222
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E mails: carhire@zandxgroup.com
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Office Hours: Monday – Friday 8am – 6.00pm