- Karolena Serratos
Hurricane Season until November 30th
Severe weather is expected all this week in the Greater Houston area so now is the time to check your vehicle before the rainstorms hit.
Here is a list of things to check on your car prior to getting out in the rain—all of these you can do yourself! No need to go to an auto repair shop. Of course my shop, Professional Auto Care in SW Houston—like most other auto care establishments—always checks these items free of charge.
DIY Quick Thunderstorms Car Check
Tires
Tread depth
Try the penny test.
Age
Are your tires older than 7 years old
Lights.
Operation
Are all the lights working?
Lens condition
Inspect for front headlamp cloudiness, condensation and cracks allowing water to enter what should be the sealed assembly. –all which are reasons where you could potentially fail the state inspection in Texas.
Wipers
Effectiveness –Are they wiping the glass effectively? –Don’t forget the back glass!
You never know if you will come across an impassable road. In this scenario find higher ground. Turn Around. Don't Drown. Driving through high water not only puts your car at risk, but also your life and the lives of the emergency responders.
Things to have with you in your vehicle.
Cell phone charger
Water
Some bars/snacks
Rain coat/umbrella in the car
Blanket
Defensive Rain Driving
What do you do if you start to hydroplane? Being in the scary situation where you feel you have lost control of where the car is going is more than frightening. The first time it ever happens, saying you are scared is an understatement—especially if you’re on the southwest freeway on a packed freeway.
Some tips for maneuvering this high adrenaline situation:
Do not brake or turn suddenly
Ease your foot off the gas until the vehicle slows and you can feel traction on the road again
Turn your steering wheel in the direction of the skid. As you recover control, gently straighten the wheels.
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