Rainy days in California can turn a normal drive into a nerve-wracking experience. Slick pavement, low visibility, and sudden downpours make it easy to lose control. That’s when many drivers suddenly search for a tow truck near me. But the truth is, a little preparation and a few smart habits can keep you safe and help you avoid the stress of calling for roadside assistance in the first place.
Smart Driving Habits to Stay Safe on Wet and Slippery Roads
Here are six practical tips from your roadside rescue experts to help you navigate wet roads with confidence.
1. Slow down and keep extra space
When rain hits, roads get slippery fast, especially after a long dry spell when oil and debris rise to the surface. Slowing your speed reduces your risk of hydroplaning, while leaving extra distance between your car and the one ahead gives you more time to brake safely.
Think of it this way: in good conditions, the “three-second rule” works. In the rain, double it. That extra cushion could be the difference between a close call and a collision that leaves you waiting for a tow truck near me.
2. Check your tires before the storms arrive
Your tires are the only contact point between your car and the road, which makes them critical in wet weather. Worn-out tread or low pressure means less grip, and less grip means more slipping.
Get into the habit of checking tread depth and air pressure regularly, especially during California’s rainy season. Good tires help your car cut through standing water, improving stability and control. Skipping this step? That’s when drivers often end up stranded and Googling for a tow truck near me in the middle of a downpour.
3. Use headlights and wipers correctly
Visibility is everything in the rain. Local law even requires headlights when it’s raining, and for good reason. Turn them on so other drivers can see you, even in lighter showers.
And don’t forget the windshield wipers. If they’re streaking or squeaking, it’s time to replace them. Clear vision reduces reaction time, which lowers your chance of an accident (and needing that roadside rescue phone call).
4. Avoid cruise control in heavy rain
Cruise control might make long drives easier, but it’s not your friend on slick roads. In fact, using it during rain increases your risk of hydroplaning because your car keeps powering forward instead of letting you naturally slow down when traction is lost.
Staying in full control of the accelerator gives you better responsiveness. It may seem like a small detail, but it’s one that can prevent serious mishaps. And as every roadside expert will tell you, prevention beats waiting for a tow truck near me.
5. Steer clear of standing water
Flooded lanes, puddles, and uneven roadways all hide hazards beneath the surface. Driving through standing water can cause hydroplaning, damage your brakes, or even flood your engine.
If you can’t avoid water, slow down to a crawl and keep your wheel steady. Don’t slam the brakes or try to accelerate quickly. Being cautious here can save your vehicle from serious damage, and save you from dialing up a tow truck near me when your car won’t restart.
6. Know when to pull over
Sometimes the smartest move is simply to wait it out. If rain is coming down so hard you can’t see beyond your hood, pull safely to the side of the road, turn on your hazard lights, and wait until visibility improves.
It’s not worth risking your life just to shave a few minutes off your trip. Roadside rescue teams often see accidents caused by impatient drivers who pushed through storms instead of waiting for safer conditions.
Final Words
Rainy roads don’t have to mean stressful driving. By slowing down, keeping your car in good shape, and using common-sense habits, you can greatly reduce your risk of accidents.
Still, emergencies happen, even to the most careful drivers. And when they do, you’ll want reliable help fast. If you find yourself stuck on the roadside and searching for a tow truck near me, remember that our team of rescue experts is always ready to get you back on the road safely.
When the unexpected happens, you shouldn’t have to waste time searching for help. Amar Towing is your reliable partner on the road, whether you need a quick jump-start, tire change, or a dependable tow. Our team is available around the clock in West Covina, CA, to get you back on the road safely and without stress.
Don’t wait until you’re stranded, save our number today and drive with confidence knowing Amar Towing is just one call away.
