• Tips for Driving in Bad Weather as a Rideshare Driver

    WRITTEN BY HOPSKIPDRIVE
    Rideshare driver uses proactive strategies to drive safely in bad weather conditions

    Driving in bad weather can be challenging, especially as a rideshare driver. Here are some tips to help you stay safe and provide a good experience for your passengers.

    General tips

    Check weather conditions: Stay informed about the weather before you start your shift. Use apps or websites to monitor conditions. When driving with HopSkipDrive, you may also want to check the local news or school district websites to stay up to date on school closings.

    Drive slowly: It is harder to control or stop your vehicle on slick roads. Reduce your speed to give yourself more time to react to slippery roads or reduced visibility conditions.

    Increase following distance: Keep a greater distance between you and the car in front of you. This gives you more time to react, allowing you to brake gradually and stop safely.

    Use headlights wisely: Turn on your headlights in low visibility conditions, like rain or fog. This not only helps you, but it also helps other drivers see you.

    Keep your vehicle well maintained: Ensure your windshield wipers are in good condition to help with visibility. Check tire tread depth regularly and be aware of tire pressure, as cold temperatures can cause the pressure to drop. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle.

    Carry an emergency road kit: Keep a kit of essentials in your car that could assist you in an emergency during inclement weather. Some things you may want to include:

    • Emergency blanket(s)
    • Jumper cables
    • Power bank
    • Non-perishable food
    • Water
    • Flashlight
    • First-aid kit

    Keep your vehicle well maintained: Ensure your windshield wipers are in good condition to help with visibility. Check tire tread depth regularly and be aware of tire pressure, as cold temperatures can cause the pressure to drop. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle.

    Rain and wet roads

    Hydroplaning awareness: If you feel your car start to hydroplane, ease off the gas and steer straight until you regain control.

    Avoid using cruise control: In slippery conditions, avoid using your cruise control. Using cruise control in these circumstances can cause your car to accelerate unexpectedly on slick surfaces.

    Snow and ice

    Winter tires: If you frequently drive in snowy areas, consider using winter tires for better traction on snow and ice.

    Know your route: Familiarize yourself with routes that are more likely to be cleared and salted.

    Clear your vehicle: Remove all snow and ice from your windows, mirrors, and lights before driving. This not only helps you see, but it also prevents large amounts of snow from flying off your car while driving, which could potentially hit other vehicles or pedestrians.

    Fog

    Lights: Make your vehicle visible to cars in front and behind you by using your low-beam headlights, which means your tail lights will also be on. If your vehicle has fog lights, use them. Never use your high-beams in fog, as doing so causes glare, making it more difficult for you to see what is in front of you.

    Follow the road markings: Follow the lane markings to ensure you stay in the proper lane.

    After the trip

    Report hazards: If you notice particularly dangerous road conditions, consider reporting them to local authorities.

    Review your day: After driving in bad weather, reflect on your experience. Think about what worked well and what you could improve for next time.

    When driving in bad weather, staying calm and cautious is key. By following the weather-related driving tips in this article, you can be prepared to stay safe and help prevent weather-related emergencies. Safe driving helps you, your passengers, and everyone else on the road!