Have you ever thought about what will happen if it rains on your road test day? The rains shouldn’t stop you from taking the test since the examiner believes you have trained to drive in different weather conditions.
Your driving skills are all you require when driving in the rain, only that you must be extra cautious for a safe maneuver and excellent results in your test.
Let’s check expert tips to drive in the rain during your road test starting with this video:
Keep reading to learn more tips on driving in the rain.
How to Drive in the Rain During Your Road Test
1. Check That the Road Is Clear
As mentioned earlier, rain doesn’t change anything you know about making the best out of your driving test, and you should check that the road is clear and plan before making your next move.
In your driving classes, ensure you take a day driving in the rain to help you get familiar with the situation. The examiner will check whether you observe the road situation before awarding marks.
2. Observe Your Mirrors
It seems obvious that you should use your mirrors when taking your test, but some people get carried away because of the fear of driving in the rain and losing concentration. There are more blind spots when driving in the rain, and you need to be extra careful.
Your examiner will observe whether you are doing the over-the-shoulder checks to eliminate blindspots before making your next move.
3. Signal Every Intention
Visibility is vital when driving in the rain, and signaling other drivers about your intentions will improve safety and earn you marks on the scoring sheet. You may need to put your headlights on to add visibility.
If you are at the traffic light, it’s okay to plan your next step in your mind, but very wrong to signal before you cross the light. Signaling while still at the traffic lights can mislead other drivers. Wait until you move to your intended side; then, you can indicate if you want to move to the left or right.
Remember to carry your windscreen wipers and set the wipers to increase visibility on the road.
4. Keep a Safe Following Distance
I took my driving test in the rain, and one thing I made sure to observe was keeping a safe distance from other cars. The best way is to ensure you can see the car wheels of the vehicle in front. A safe space will increase your reaction time in case of an emergency.
If there’s a commercial vehicle ahead of you, it’s to increase the following distance. Remember to cover the brake pedals as you prepare to act in an emergency. Ensure that you can see the windshield for a safe maneuver.
5. Drive Slowly
The law allows you to drive below the speed limit when it’s raining. Moving faster reduces your reaction time, keeping in mind that there are slippery roads and more chances of skidding and causing collisions.
However, a prolonged speed is unacceptable since it will alter traffic flow. For example, if the speed limit is 50, you can drive at 40, but getting to 20 will add inconveniences, and the examiner may interpret it as a fear of being behind the wheel.
The low speed will help avoid large water puddles that can be deep; if the weather gets extreme, the examiner can ask you to stop.
6. Stick to Your Lane
Be on the lookout to stay in your lane when driving on the road, as it is in average weather conditions. The examiner will deduct your marks if you get to the yellow line.
Don’t be tempted to drive on another lane because it seems straightforward, but you can overtake and move back to your route.
If you are approaching a sharp turn, keep lower speeds depending on the scenario plus, keeping your hands on the 9 and 3 positions will help you control the steering wheel.
7. Watch Out for Pedestrians
You need to be on the lookout for pedestrians when driving in the rain since some of them make haste decisions when crossing the road, and if you aren’t keen, you may end up hitting them. Use your side mirrors to check the oncoming cyclists and taxis that can make crazy moves at times.
8. Cut Out Distractions
You control what to do on the road, and it’s good to ensure you aren’t distracted, especially with all the potential hazards. Ensure your phone is in flight mode since an incoming call or message may snatch your thoughts as you try to figure out who was calling.
Another common distraction is driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, which impairs your judgment on the road, and you may end up making gross mistakes that will earn you a fail. Reschedule the test if you still feel nervous about taking it.
What Should I Observe from My Car Before Driving In the Rain?
1. The Car Tires Condition
The DMV checks that your test car is in the proper condition and fit for your test bits; it’s advisable to check the tire’s treads before hitting the road to increase traction and friction. The examiner can stop the test if the car tires aren’t suitable for hitting the road.
2. Wipers and Lights
Imagine starting your road test trip, and it starts raining, only to realize that your wipers aren’t functional. The situation mostly happens if you haven’t driven in the rain for a long time, and the best way to avoid embarrassment is to check them before the test day.
Your vehicle lights should be in the right conditions for night driving and driving in the rain since it gets darker. You need an efficient car to pass the test.
Wrapping Up
When taking your road test in the rain, you must be very careful to observe the surroundings even with the reduced visibility. Drive slowly to increase reaction time and traction on slippery roads. No new concept has been introduced for driving in the rain; you will maneuver safely with the basics.
During your driving classes, ensure you practice driving in different weather conditions. Our instructors will guide you on what to do during your practice, preparing you for the test. Book lessons for the best experience on different roads.