If you live in an area where it rains consistently, you know how dangerous slippery roads can be. In fact, 16 percent of all accidents are caused by wet pavement.
Wet and slippery roads can be a challenging experience as a driver, especially when you add rain and wind into the mix. But with safe driving practices and the right high-performance tires, you can significantly increase your vehicle’s safety and performance.
The demands of wet conditions
Wet road conditions demand more from your tires. The presence of water on the road reduces the grip your tires have, which can lead to longer stopping distances and a heightened risk of hydroplaning.
Roads can be extremely unsafe after the first rain following a dry period because oil deposits can build up on a road. As the rain falls, it loosens these deposits, making the road slick and dangerous.
Most drivers downplay the risks of wet roads, especially in the face of snowy or icy conditions. Acknowledging the danger and understanding how to handle wet roads will enhance your safety and the performance of your vehicle during rainy weather.
Understanding hydroplaning
Hydroplaning occurs when a layer of water builds between the tires and the road surface, leading to a loss of traction and control. The right tire choice, combined with proper maintenance, reduces the risk of hydroplaning by ensuring your tires can effectively displace water and maintain contact with the road surface.
Safe driving practices on wet and slippery roads
Safe driving on wet roads starts with your driving habits. Adjust your speed. Slowing down gives you more time to react if the car starts to hydroplane. Increase the safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. This, again, gives you more time to react if there’s a problem.
Then, drive steadily and avoid sudden maneuvers. By giving the danger the respect it deserves, you’ll reduce your risk in wet conditions.
Choosing the right tires
When it comes to driving in the rain or on slippery roads, you have options to choose tires that are better at handling these conditions. When in the market for tires, check the features of that tire to see how it’s designed to perform on wet roads. High-performance tires, best all-season tires, and best all-weather tires feature specialized tread patterns and compounds that enhance grip, reduce the risk of hydroplaning, and improve handling on wet roads.
The tires you choose can make a significant difference in your driving experience, especially in challenging conditions. Your choice should align with your driving needs and the typical road conditions you encounter.
Tire maintenance for enhanced wet-road traction
Maintaining your tires is just as important as selecting the right ones. Regular inspections ensure your tires have adequate tread depth, essential for dispersing water and maintaining traction. Furthermore, keeping your tires properly inflated and aligned plays a significant role in preserving their condition and ensuring optimal performance on wet roads.
Regular inspection and maintenance
Regular tire inspections can identify issues before they become serious problems. Checking for proper tread depth, signs of wear, and ensuring tires are free from damage are all part of a comprehensive tire-maintenance routine.
In addition to regular inspections, rotating your tires and maintaining the correct tire pressure are key. These practices not only extend the life of your tires but also contribute to better fuel efficiency and enhanced safety on wet roads.
Sailun for wet-road safety
At Sailun Tires, our tires are designed with innovative technology to provide superior traction and handling in wet conditions. From the tread pattern to the rubber compound, every aspect of our tires is engineered to enhance your safety and driving experience, regardless of the weather.
Atrezzo 4Season
Most of us are dealing with all kinds of weather during an average year. The Atrezzo 4Season tire has the traction and grip of winter tires with superior traction to reduce the risk of hydroplaning. A versatile performance tire, the Atrezzo 4Season will help enhance your driving experience all year long.
When in the market for tires to handle wet and slippery conditions, contact Sailun for tires designed for high performance and safety.