More dangerous than snow: Why driving in the rain is a bigger hazard
Rain might seem harmless, but it's actually more dangerous than snow when it comes to driving. The Weather Network explains why rain causes more accidents and what drivers often get wrong when it starts to pour.
One might think that driving in snowfall is the most hazardous weather condition to be in while on the road, but that's not the case as it turns out.
But why is that the case? There are a multitude of reasons.
SEE ALSO: Why we love the smell of rain
First, rain can catch us off guard. The first few minutes after the rain begins are actually the slickest.
That’s when oil, grease, and dirt rise to the surface of the road, creating a film that reduces traction, and fast, too.
Driving in the rain. (Nathan Coleman/The Weather Network)
And unlike snow, which we often associate with dangerous conditions, rain feels less threatening.
So, drivers may not slow down or take the same precautions.
In winter, we’re ready. We’ve got winter tires, emergency kits, and we monitor snowy systems coming days in advance.
Now, what about rainfall?
Cars driving through heavy rainfall. (Getty Images)
It can sometimes appear with little or no warning, especially in the spring and summer. And most of us aren't changing our tires or our driving habits for it.
That sudden change can result in bad decisions behind the wheel––like turning a corner too fast or not leaving enough distance between you and the vehicle ahead of you.
Heavier rain can cause your tires to lose grip entirely, even––called hydroplaning--and it doesn’t take much water.
Visibility drops fast, too. Headlights will reflect, windshield wiper blades aren't fast enough to maintain the rainfall rate, and spray from other vehicles can makes it worse.
Car driving through a puddle. (Nathan Coleman/The Weather Network)
And, in extreme cases, flooding can cause cars to stall out or, worse, get swept away.
Even though snow and winter driving gets more attention, rain can be just as risky––especially if you underestimate it.
With files from Kim MacDonald, a content creator and weather specialist at The Weather Network.