Are you having problems with precipitation? If so, you are not the only one. Even highly skilled drivers will have a hard time navigating in heavy rainfall. Roads are slick which makes it more likely to have collisions with objects and other vehicles or hydroplaning to occur. When the rain starts to accumulate, obstacles are created as it begins to morph into deep puddles of water. If it goes unnoticed, the impact with the pools may result in dangerous accidents, engine failure, and vehicle damage. When those incidents take place, how can you remain safe in hazardous environments while you are waiting for the towing company to get there?
4 Ways You Can Avoid The Dangers Of Rainy Day Roadside Assistance
The following tips for keeping safe on the roadside when it is raining are commonsense, however, in moments of panic they are often overlooked:
Remain a Safe Distance Away From The Traffic
It can feel overwhelming when you need to pull off a highway or interstate when something is wrong with your vehicle. The slick surface of the road requirements you to make adjustments to your braking in order to prevent hydroplaning from occurring, and for safety, it is also necessary to add extra space in between vehicles and drive at slower speeds. Having some extra space is particularly important when you are sitting on the side of the road in the rain waiting for help to arrive. Keep your truck and yourself a safe distance from the dangers posed by passing traffic while you are waiting for your heavy-duty towing service provider to arrive.
It is harder to see other vehicles in the rain, especially during strong storms. It is even worse at night. After you have pulled off of the road safely, make sure you are visible by turning your hazard lights on immediately while you are calling for help. Turn your sidelights on also at night, but avoid turning your full beams on since they may impair other drivers. Stay inside the cab if possible. If you are unable to do this, make sure to have a high-visibility vest packed, and put it on anytime you need to get out of your truck.
Keep The Hood Close
Heavy rains can cause excess moisture that may, in turn, cause electrical components and the engine to fail. Rather than trying to tinker around under your hood while it is raining, leave it closed and wait for a professional to determine what the problem is. Otherwise, you might end up adding a couple more.
After You Go For A Dive Don’t Try To Restart
Large amounts of water can accumulate on roads that are poorly designed when it rains. If your truck comes into contact with these pools of water (which often are deeper than they look), they may cause your engine to stall. When that happens, resist the urge of trying to restart your truck. It isn’t likely that will get you back o the road, and at the same time highly likely that it will cause your engine to lock up, and the infiltration of water can cause catastrophic damage to the valves and piston rods of your engine.
Let Leahy’s Towing help you when you need assistance. Call us for more information, our service professionals are here to help.