They say April showers bring May flowers, but one of the many devastating effects of climate change is more frequent and intense precipitation all year round. As temperatures rise, higher levels of water evaporate into the air, which leads to an increase in heavier rainfalls, and in turn, an increase in floods, winds, soil erosion, and more. Severe thunderstorms bring strong winds, which is a dangerous situation for any type of tractor-trailer. However, it's especially dangerous for empty or light trailers due to the risk of a rollover crash. This is because the sides of dry van trailers - the sail area - are prone to catching wind.
While drivers always need to be attentive and focused on the road, the rain brings added challenges and demands. Staying safe while driving in the rain begins long before you turn your engine on to depart with pre pre-trip planning (no, that is not a typo - this is the planning even before your pre-trip inspection).
We've got 10 helpful and practical tips for you to stay safe when driving in heavy rain. Check them out below!
1. Review Your Route
Before you depart, ensure careful and detailed planning. This means even before your pre-trip inspection. Start by reviewing your route and checking for any weather alerts or road closures along the way. If there are any road closures
2. Pack / RE-Stock your Emergency Kit
Chances are you already have an emergency kit in your truck, so make sure it's fully stocked and ready to go in the event you might need it. Check out this article "What to pack in an all-seasons truck driver emergency kit", which lists the necessities in 3 distinct categories such as 1). driver survival items, 2). tools and gadgets and 3). truck items.
Important things to call out specifically include:
- Extra food and water
- First aid kit
- Reflective gear such as a safety vest
- Warm clothing and blankets
- Hand and feet warmers
- Flashlight
- Breaker bar
- Warning flag
- Jumper cables
- Wireless cell phone charger
3. Organize Your Cab
Ensuring everything is in its right place before you head out will set you up for success. This includes setting up your GPS navigation, keeping your CB radio on low, and turning off and moving any other electronic devices away that could affect your concentration. Stow some of those extra snacks and drinks to stay energized and hydrated within reach for easy access when needed.
4. Stay on Top of Maintenance
Routine and pre-trip inspections are so important as a preventative measure to stay safe and feel confident about the condition of your vehicle. For rain, specifically, it's recommended to check -
- Tires: Ensure they're not wearing, as that can lead to traction loss and hydroplaning.
- Windows: Ensure visibility of them and for the functionality of your wipers. Heavy rain wears your wiper blades, so be sure you carry an extra set to always maintain visibility on the road.
- Brakes: Ensure full functionality while on the road.
- Lubrication: Rainwater can wash away lubrication, so be sure you have enough of the correct type of lubrication covering your truck's 5th wheel plate. A dry plate becomes hazardous and keeps the tractor and trailer from pivoting on curves and corners, making handling difficult.
5. Slow Down and Stretch Out
Once you head out on the road, stay hyper-aware and cautious. This may sound obvious, but never hammer down in rainy conditions. Your speed should match the weather conditions rather than the signs on the road. Accelerating, cruising, and decelerating at a slower pace below the speed limit will help you maintain traction and control of your vehicle. Be aware that trucks require even more stopping distance on wet roads, so stretch out your following distance to allow for it.
6. Turn off Cruise Control and Engine Brakes
Traction loss is common on wet roads. Leave your cruise control and engine brakes off so that you can remain aware of the feel of the road and prevent hydroplaning. Use of engine brakes, or "jake brakes" will increase the likelihood of a skid in wet road conditions.
7. Watch for Puddles
Standing water often covers potholes, debris, or a washed-out road, all of which can cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Do everything possible to avoid driving through standing water, even if it means turning around and finding another route. However, if you see a puddle that you can't avoid, be sure to slow down significantly to maintain control of your vehicle.
8. Keep Your Lights On
Whether day or night, keep all your lights on during heavy downpours to maintain as much visibility as possible on the road and that others also have as much visibility to you, too.
9. Stay Calm
If you do hydroplane or lose control or skid, remember to remain calm. Panicking will only cause you to lose more control. Stop accelerating and keep your steering wheel straight, as braking or turning abruptly could lead to a rollover crash. Try to stay patient and do everything possible to regain control.
10. Know When to PULL OVER
Perhaps the most important tip of all is that if visibility is low or conditions deteriorate beyond what you feel is safe, pull over. Stop driving until things improve. Find a safe, high-visibility place to park and rest. You may be worried about delivering your load on time, as shippers and receivers may not be happy if you're late, but they understand the impact severe weather has on business.
Above all, your safety is the highest priority. Always listen to your instincts and exercise good judgment. No load is worth risking your life or anyone else's.
Do you have a tip for driving in the rain? Share it with us in the comments below!
Other relevant articles:
DVIR: Pre-Trip and Post-Trip Inspections