Bad weather can turn an easy drive into a dangerous one, but you can stay safe by keeping your vehicle ready to handle all types of outdoor conditions. Even if you’re an attentive driver, you could end up in an accident due to worn brakes or a burnt-out headlight. Here, the auto maintenance experts at Byrd Automotive in The Woodlands, TX, share five tips all drivers should follow when less-than-ideal weather strikes.

How to Drive During Inclement Weather

1. Don’t Use Cruise Control
While cruise control has its benefits, it’s not ideal while driving in difficult weather. It takes away your ability to quickly control the vehicle and make fast decisions. As a result, avoid using cruise control until the weather has cleared up.

2. Decrease Your Speed
The posted speed limits on roads are meant to be followed in ideal conditions, so decrease your speed when the weather turns sour. You’ll maintain control of the car better and have more time to make decisions and prevent an accident.

3. Increase Your Following Distance
In addition to slowing down, you should also increase your following distance behind other vehicles. The brakes might not work as effectively in bad weather, so it’s important to keep more distance between you and other cars. If the driver in front of you slams on their brakes, it’ll give your car more time to react and come to a safe stop.

4. Turn on the Lights
The headlights and brake lights should both be checked regularly to make sure they’re able to provide adequate light. In particular, the brake lights communicate to the driver behind you that your car is stopping and they should, too. The headlights illuminate the road ahead and make you aware of any large ice patches, rain puddles, and other hazards.

5. Get the Brakes Serviced
The brakes are one of the most important parts of a car during a drive in poor weather. If they can’t handle the harsh conditions, you risk getting into an accident. The brake pads should be replaced if they’ve become worn down, and the rotor should be inspected for damage by an auto mechanic.

Source: 5 Tips for Driving in Poor Weather