Bad weather can turn an everyday drive into a challenging one very quickly. Rain, fog, and storms reduce visibility, affect braking, and increase the risk of breakdowns and accidents. Tow truck operators see the results of poor weather driving daily, often from situations that could have been avoided with a few smart adjustments behind the wheel.
Here are practical, real-world tips to help you drive more safely when the weather turns bad.
How should you adjust your driving in wet weather?
Rain reduces tyre grip and increases stopping distances, especially on roads that haven’t been washed clean in a while.
Key tips for driving in rain:
- Slow down and allow extra braking distance
- Avoid sudden steering or braking movements
- Drive in the tyre tracks of the vehicle ahead where water is often displaced
- Watch for standing water and avoid puddles when possible
Even light rain can make roads slippery, particularly at the start of a shower.
What’s the safest way to drive in fog?
Fog limits visibility and makes judging distance difficult. The biggest mistake drivers make is driving too fast for what they can see.
When driving in fog:
- Use low-beam headlights, not high beams
- Reduce speed and stay well below the limit if needed
- Increase following distance
- Use road markings as visual guides
If visibility becomes extremely poor, pulling over in a safe location is often the smartest choice.
Should hazard lights be used in fog or heavy rain?
No, not while driving normally. Hazard lights are meant to warn other drivers of a stopped or unexpected hazard, not to be used as driving lights.
Using hazard lights while moving can confuse other drivers and hide your indicators. Headlights and fog lights provide better visibility without causing confusion.
How do storms change driving conditions?
Stormy weather brings multiple hazards at once. Heavy rain, strong winds, debris, and sudden flooding all affect vehicle control.
During storms:
- Be alert for fallen branches and loose debris
- Grip the steering wheel firmly in strong winds
- Slow down further when visibility drops suddenly
- Avoid driving near large vehicles in crosswinds
Storm conditions can change quickly, so staying alert is essential.
How can you reduce the risk of aquaplaning?
Aquaplaning occurs when tyres lose contact with the road due to water buildup.
To reduce the risk:
- Drive at lower speeds
- Ensure tyres have adequate tread depth
- Avoid sudden braking on wet roads
- Ease off the accelerator if you feel loss of control
Good tyres make a huge difference in wet conditions.
What should you do if conditions become too dangerous?
If weather conditions feel unsafe:
- Look for a safe place to pull over
- Turn on hazard lights once stopped
- Stay in your vehicle until conditions improve
- Avoid stopping under trees or near flood-prone areas
It’s always better to arrive late than not at all.
How does poor weather lead to more towing call-outs?
Rain, fog, and storms increase accidents, mechanical failures, and road closures. Tow truck services see higher demand during bad weather due to:
- Collisions caused by reduced visibility
- Cars stalling in water
- Overheated or flooded engines
- Vehicles sliding off wet roads
Driving cautiously helps reduce the chance of needing roadside assistance.
Driving in rain, fog, and stormy weather requires patience, awareness, and a willingness to slow down. Small changes in how you drive can prevent accidents and keep everyone safer. And if bad weather does catch you out, a dependable local tow truck service is always ready to help you through the toughest conditions.
If you are in Keysborough, and looking for a tow truck service, this is the best way to visit us.
Cranbourne Tow Trucks
39 S Gippsland Hwy, Cranbourne VIC 3977
(03) 7042 2059