Northeast Ohio has seen some intense rain the last couple of days, and it's left us with major and minor flooding, making it difficult for drivers to navigate the roads.
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So how exactly should we go about driving in heavy rain? What do we do when we come across flooding in the road? AAA offers these useful tips for driving in severe rain, which Northeast Ohio needs, because we've got some of you on video driving through two feet of standing water.
Ask: is it worth driving? Don't put yourself at risk unnecessarily.
Hydroplaning happens. Knowing what to do when that happens is important. DON'T slam on your brakes or gas. Keep calm and steer in the direction you want your car to travel.
Never drive through standing water. No matter how shallow the water may appear, there's a chance it's deeper than you think, or there may be downed power lines or other hazards you can't see in the water.
Check your tires. Bald tires are much more likely to lose grip and hydroplane.
Beware of others. You can be the best driver in the world, but that won't stop your fellow commuters from making bad choices on the road.
Create a cushion. Put a few cars of distance between you and the car in front of you.
Slow down. Brake early and drive with greater caution.
Turn your headlights on. It's important to not only make sure you can see where you're going, but other drivers need to be able to see you. This is not only a good tip, it's the law.
Avoid cruise control. This feature is great in dry conditions, but when the roads of wet, the chances of losing control of your car are greater.
Get to higher ground. If your vehicle stalls or is suddenly caught in rising water, leave it immediately.
Drive in the center lanes. Avoid driving in the outside lanes where water can collect near the curb.
Use your defroster. Keep the air inside your car dry and prevent windows from fogging up by using your defroster along with your air conditioner.
Get off the road. If conditions get too bad for you to safely handle, take the nearest exit. Don't just stop on the side of the road. If you visibility is compromised, other drivers may be having a hard time, too.
Be safe out there!
