Driving Tips for Rainy Days near Emmaus, PA

Rain is probably great for your garden, but it definitely isn't your best friend behind the wheel. Whether you’re leaving from Emmaus, taking a drive down Route 29, or traveling to work in Allentown, having wet roads takes some of the comfort out of any drive.

This is why the Scott Family of Dealerships wants to ensure that you can confidently tackle any challenges a rainy day brings. Our team of car professionals has pulled together some practical rainy-day tips and tricks so you can be safe, secure, and in control - even when it starts raining.

Slow Your Roll

Rain significantly diminishes traction, meaning your tires do not stick to the roadway as they would while driving on dry pavement. The Federal Highway Administration has found that nearly 70 percent of crashes that are related to weather occur on wet roads.

The fix? Ease off the gas.

• Reduce speed by five to 10 mph in light rain.
• Slow down even more in heavier downpours.
• Increase your following distance (aim for at least five seconds behind the car ahead).

Turn On the Lights (But Not the High Beams)

If your windshield wipers are on, your headlights should be too – it’s the law in Pennsylvania. This helps other drivers see you and improves visibility during gray, rainy conditions.

Helpful lighting tips:

• Use low-beam headlights, not high beams (they can reflect off rain and reduce visibility).
• Don’t forget to check your brake lights and turn signals regularly.

Don’t Underestimate Your Tires

Your tires are your first line of defense when the road gets slick. If they’re worn, underinflated, or just not up to the task, you’re putting yourself at risk of hydroplaning.

Before the next storm hits:

• While 2/32 inches is the legal minimum, most experts recommend replacing tires at 4/32 inches or less for safer wet-weather traction.
• Ensure tires are at the recommended PSI.
• Remember to rotate your tires regularly to evenly wear your tires.

Need a hand? Stop by our service center, and we'll do it for you.

Avoid Standing Water

We understand that splashes are exciting (if you're five). However, puddles can be more treacherous than they appear, and going through one could cause hydroplaning or even engine damage if water gets sucked into the intake.

Best Practices:

• Go around large puddles when possible.
• If you can't go around a puddle, slow down before entering the water.
• Do not assume a shadow is shallow.

Keep Your Windshield Clear

Rain and fog don’t just hit the outside of your car – they affect your visibility inside, too.

Rain-ready visibility checklist:

• Replace wiper blades every six to 12 months.
• Use a rain-repellent windshield treatment.
• Keep your defroster and climate control systems working properly.

Foggy windshield? Use your air conditioning – it dehumidifies the air inside the cabin and helps clear it up faster.

What If You Hydroplane?

Hydroplaning happens when your tires lose contact with the road and ride on top of water. It can feel like you're sliding – because you are.

If it happens:

• Don’t slam the brakes.
• Ease off the accelerator.
• Steer gently in the direction you want to go.
• Wait until your tires regain contact before accelerating again.

Maintain Your Brakes and Suspension

When it rains, the braking and handling systems are evaluated. If there is excessive wear in the suspension or the brake system isn’t responsive, you might not stop as fast or maintain the level of control.

Allow the team at Scott Family of Dealerships to check:

• Brake Pad Thickness
• Shock and Strut Condition
• Steering Response and Alignment

It is an easy way to be prepared for the weather – and anything else the road gives you.

Be Ready for the Rain with Scott Family of Dealerships

Here at Scott Family of Dealerships, near Emmaus, PA, we know the weather doesn’t always treat you fairly. But, when you keep your vehicle serviced, and you follow a few helpful tips, you’ll be ready for anything the weather decides to throw your way – rain or shine.

Do you need new tires? Is it time to check your brakes? Want to get ahead of the next storm? Stop by one of our service centers, and we will help you be safe, no matter how bad the weather gets.

Schedule your service today, and let's make sure your vehicle is ready for the roads ahead, in any kind of weather.

Disclaimer: This content was drafted with AI assistance for initial drafting, reviewed by a subject-matter expert for accuracy, and edited by our team of writers and editors.