Wet Weather Driving Tips: Stay Safe on the Road with Tynan Motors and NRMA

As the cooler months roll in and rain begins to make regular appearances, it’s more important than ever to drive with caution. Heavy rainfall—especially in fire-affected areas—can trigger dangerous conditions including flash flooding, rockfalls, landslides, and road sediment. At Tynan Motors, your safety is our priority, and we’re teaming up with insights from NRMA Driver Training to help you drive smarter in wet weather.

☔ Plan Before You Drive

Before heading out in stormy conditions, check for road closures and hazards via Live Traffic NSW. Avoid unnecessary trips and never underestimate the dangers of wet roads.

🚗 Top Tips for Driving Safely in the Rain

1. Slow Down and Increase Travel Time

Wet roads drastically reduce tyre grip. Drive slower than usual, allow for longer braking distances, and leave extra travel time to avoid stress.

💡 Tynan Tip: Wet weather increases braking distances by up to 50%. Ease into every stop.

2. Watch for Slick Roads After Dry Spells

When it rains after a long dry period, oil and grease on the road can create extremely slippery surfaces. These conditions are especially dangerous in the first few hours of rain.

3. Turn Your Headlights On

Headlights help you see the road and be seen by others. Even during daylight hours, low-beam headlights are essential in rain.

4. Drive in the Tracks of the Car Ahead

Following another vehicle’s tyre tracks helps reduce water between your tyres and the road. Just remember to maintain a safe following distance.

5. Brake Gently and Early

Wet roads require softer braking and more anticipation:

• Brake earlier
• Use turn signals sooner
• Avoid harsh steering inputs

6. Stay Alert for Pedestrians and Cyclists

Rain reduces visibility and mutes sound. Be especially cautious near:

• Intersections
• School zones
• Public transport stops

People may cross roads unpredictably to escape the rain.

7. Defog Your Windscreen

Rain and temperature changes cause fogging. Use:

• Front and rear demisters
• Air conditioning to clear internal moisture quickly

8. Avoid Large Puddles

You never know what’s underneath! Puddles can hide:

• Deep potholes
• Electrical hazards
• Suspension-damaging obstacles

If you must cross one, go slowly and tap your brakes gently afterward to help dry your brake rotors.

9. Give Trucks and Buses Extra Space

Large vehicles kick up heavy spray that can completely block your vision. If passing is necessary, do so quickly and safely.

10. Use Safety Tech, But Don’t Rely on It

Modern vehicles (like many sold at Tynan Motors) are equipped with traction and stability control systems. These help—but don’t eliminate—the risk of skidding or aquaplaning. Always adjust your speed for the conditions.

🌊 What to Do If You Aquaplane or Skid

Aquaplaning occurs when your tyres lose contact with the road and slide on a thin layer of water.

• Don’t brake or steer suddenly
• Ease off the accelerator
• Brake gently if necessary (ABS will help if fitted)

If skidding:

• Take your foot off the accelerator
• Steer in the direction you want to go
• Stay calm and avoid over-correcting

🛑 Don’t Attempt to Cross Floodwaters

Even 15cm of fast-moving water can knock over an adult—and one metre can sweep a vehicle away. Avoid water crossings at all costs.

🔧 Check Your Vehicle Before the Rain Arrives

Make sure your vehicle is ready for wet conditions. At Tynan Motors, we recommend checking:

• Tyre tread and inflation
• Windscreen wiper condition
• Brake system performance
• Headlight and indicator function

🛠️ Need a quick inspection? Book a pre-season check-up at your nearest Tynan Motors service centre.

💤 When the Rain is Too Heavy, Stop

If you can’t clearly see the road or other vehicles:

• Pull over to a safe location well off the road
• Turn on your hazard lights
• Wait for the rain to ease before continuing

🚘 Tynan Motors: Your Road Safety Partner

Whether you’re commuting, road-tripping, or navigating local roads, Tynan Motors is here to keep you safe and informed. From expert vehicle servicing to vehicles equipped with advanced safety systems, we help our customers stay one step ahead of the conditions.

Book your wet-weather vehicle check-up today—because safe driving starts with a safe car.

Tynan Motors – Trusted by Drivers, Ready for Every Season.

Ensure you search the Tynan stock through our link here.

Credit: MyNRMA.com.au