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Precautions for driving in the rain
Table of contents
Driving in the rain is a significant challenge for many drivers. Slippery roads, reduced visibility, and increased reaction time all greatly increase driving risks. According to statistics from the Hong Kong Transport Department, traffic accidents occurring in the rain are approximately 30-40% higher than in sunny weather. We will detail the precautions to take when driving in the rain and analyze traffic accident data caused by rain in Hong Kong in recent years to help drivers better cope with the challenges of driving in adverse weather conditions.
Overview of the dangers of driving in the rain
The dangers of driving in the rain mainly stem from slippery roads, reduced visibility, flooding, and changes in driving behavior. In a rainy city like Hong Kong, especially during the rainy season (May to September), when annual rainfall accounts for approximately 801 TP3T, the risk of traffic accidents increases significantly. Studies show that the first hour after rain is the peak period for accidents, as drivers are not yet accustomed to the slippery roads or residual moisture can cause them to skid.
For example, in a 2009 analysis of Hong Kong traffic accident data, the average number of accidents per hour on rainy days was 0.7530, far higher than the 0.0859 on dry days. This shows that the accident rate increased nearly ninefold on rainy days. Rainfall intensity also affects risk; accidents increased most significantly when hourly rainfall reached 19mm or 26mm. Furthermore, pedestrian accidents are more severe on rainy days; 2015 data showed that the probability of pedestrian-vehicle collisions (KSI - serious injury/fatality) increased by 1.89 times on rainy days.
Rain not only affects physical conditions but also alters driving psychology. Some drivers speed up to avoid getting wet, leading to speeding or sudden braking. Hong Kong's narrow roads and dense traffic exacerbate these problems, especially on slopes and curves. The Transport Department advises that braking distance increases when driving on wet roads, thus requiring a greater following distance.
To understand this fully, we can analyze it from a physics perspective. When the road surface is wet, the coefficient of friction between the tire and the road surface drops from 0.8 on a dry road to below 0.4, meaning that braking distance may more than double. At a speed of 60 km/h, the braking distance on a dry road is about 20 meters, but on a wet road it may require 40 meters. If there is heavy rainfall, hydroplaning occurs, causing the tires to completely lose traction, and the vehicle becomes uncontrollable as if hydroplaning.
Hong Kong's climate is characterized by frequent tropical cyclones, with an average of 116 rainy days during the rainy season and extreme rainfall exceeding 70 mm per hour. This not only leads to direct accidents but also triggers secondary problems such as landslides and road flooding. In 2023, Hong Kong recorded 17,189 traffic accidents, involving 22,269 injuries, some of which were related to wet roads.
Specific things to pay attention to when driving in the rain
Driving in the rain requires attention to four areas: vehicle preparation, driving behavior, road condition observation, and emergency response. The following details each aspect, providing examples and suggestions to ensure comprehensive explanation.
Vehicle preparation
Checking your vehicle before it rains or at the start of the rainy season is crucial.
FirstTire condition. Tire tread depth must be at least 1.6mm, otherwise it is prone to slipping on wet roads. The Hong Kong Transport Department stipulates that insufficient tire tread depth can result in a fine.
secondWindshield wipers and lights. Worn wiper blades can impair visibility and should be replaced annually. Lights include headlights, fog lights, and brake lights; turning on lights in the rain improves visibility. Studies show that rain reduces visibility by 20-30%, while lights can reduce the risk of a collision by 15%.
thirdBraking system. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is especially important on wet roads, but older cars may not have this feature, requiring regular brake pad checks. Hong Kong has many hilly roads, and brake failure is frequent in rainy weather. Further explanation: Imagine you are driving on Hong Kong Island, from Central to Victoria Peak. In rainy weather, the hills are slippery, and if the tires are worn, it's easy to lose control and crash into the guardrail. Case: In 2023, a bus experienced brake failure in the rain, resulting in multiple injuries. Recommendation: Have your brakes checked at a garage before the rainy season. The cost is approximately HK$500-1000, but it can save lives.
fourthAir conditioning and defroster. Windows fog up easily in rainy weather; using the defroster avoids blind spots. (This section expands to approximately 1500 words, detailing each inspection step, tool, cost, and Hong Kong regulations.)
Driving behavior
Slowing down is paramount. Reduce your speed by 20-30 km/h, for example, from 100 km/h to 70 km/h on a highway. Maintain a safe following distance of at least 4 seconds (4 seconds between the time the car in front passes the sign and your own). Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns. When turning on wet roads, centrifugal force increases, making skidding more likely. Engine braking is recommended for slowing down. Be aware of flooded roads. Low-lying areas in Hong Kong, such as Tin Shui Wai or Yuen Long, are prone to flooding after rain. Do not drive through areas where the water depth exceeds half the tire height, otherwise the engine may stall due to water entering the engine.
Time of day influences behavior. Accidents are more frequent during the morning rush hour (7-9 am) in the rain because drivers are often impatient and rushing to work. Studies show that the accident rate increases by 301% (TP) and 303% (T) during the morning rush hour in the rain. Visibility is even worse at night in the rain, requiring drivers to use high beams but avoiding dazzling others. Pedestrians should note: In the rain, pedestrians with umbrellas have limited visibility, increasing the risk of jaywalking. Data shows that the risk index (KSI) for jaywalking increases by 1.97 times in the rain.
Pedestrian accident weather factors (KSI odds ratio)
| Weather conditions | KSI probability multiple | Unexpected proportion |
|---|---|---|
| Rainy weather (0-15mm) | 1.89 | 3% (84/2794) |
| Hot weather (>30°C) | 1.35 | 16.7% |
| rain + jaywalking | 1.97 | – |
Road condition observation
Be mindful of ramps, bridges, and tunnel entrances, as these areas are prone to water accumulation or icy conditions (although Hong Kong has little ice, it can still be slippery on cold, rainy days). Pay attention to road signs and traffic lights, as reflected light in the rain can be misleading. Further information: Hong Kong's terrain is mountainous, and mountain roads, such as those on Tai Mo Shan, are prone to fog and landslides on rainy days. Data shows that the first hour after rain is unexpectedly high due to residual water on the roads.
Emergency response
If hydroplaning occurs, release the accelerator and do not brake; allow the tires to regain traction. After the accident, turn on hazard lights and place a warning triangle. Call 999.
Speed control
- Reduce speedBraking distance on wet roads is about 2-3 times longer than on dry roads.
- Avoid sudden acceleration/sudden brakingIt can easily lead to slipping or loss of control.
- Use engine brakingEspecially on downhill sections
Visibility management
Use lights correctly:
- Light rain: Use low beam headlights.
- Heavy rain or torrential rain: Front and rear fog lights can be turned on.
- Do not misuse high beams (as this can create a light curtain effect).
Keep the windshield clean:
- Replace windshield wipers regularly (recommended every 6-12 months).
- Use a high-quality glass cleaner.
- Turn on the air conditioner's defrost function
Regarding safe distance
- Increase following distanceMaintain at least twice the usual safe distance.
- Reserve reaction timeReaction time is about 1 second longer in rainy weather than in sunny weather.
Driving techniques in rainy conditions
Flooded road sections:
- Determine water depth (by observing the passage of other vehicles).
- Pass through slowly and smoothly (to avoid creating waves).
- After passing through, lightly press the brake pedal several times to dry the brake pads.
- Avoid passing through at high speeds (as this may cause hydroplaning).
- If the water depth exceeds half the height of the tires, take an alternate route.
curve:
- Slow down in advance
- Avoid braking in the middle of a curve
When visibility is extremely low:
- Turn on the hazard warning lights
- Find a safe place to park
- If you must continue driving, follow the taillights of the vehicle in front and maintain your direction.
Typhoon weather
Strong wind response:
- Pay special attention to bridges and elevated road sections.
- Grip the steering wheel tightly with both hands
- Stay away from large vehicles
ROAD CLOSED:
- Pay attention to traffic updates on the radio or mobile apps.
- Plan alternative routes in advance
Mountain roads
Landslide risk:
- Pay attention to roadside warning signs.
- Observe the hillside for any unusual water flow or falling rocks.
Driving in fog:
- Use fog lights instead of high beams.
- Maintain direction by relying on road markings
highway
Speed Management:
- Even if the speed limit allows, you should reduce your speed appropriately.
- Avoid occupying the overtaking lane for extended periods
Large vehicle interaction:
- Avoid following too closely (splashes will reduce visibility).
- Accelerate decisively when overtaking
Tunnel entrance and exit:
- Be aware of sudden changes in road surface moisture.
Vehicle control
- Avoid sudden turnsIt can easily lead to sideslip.
- Correct use of ABS systemIn an emergency, press the brake pedal firmly to activate the ABS.
- Note the impact of crosswinds.Especially on bridges or in open road sections
Driving risks in the rain at different times of day
Early morning (5:00-8:00)
Risk factors:
- The driver may not be fully awake.
- Oil stains on the road surface mix with rainwater to form a slipperier surface.
- Low visibility (morning fog + rain)
Precautions:
- Depart early to avoid rushing.
- Pay special attention to pedestrians and other road users
Daytime (8:00-17:00)
Risk factors:
- High traffic volume
- Some drivers may underestimate the risks of rainy weather.
Precautions:
- Be aware of water splashes from large vehicles.
- Avoiding peak traffic routes
Evening/Night (17:00-24:00)
Risk factors:
- Fatigue driving
- Extremely low visibility
- Reflective pavement markings may be covered by rainwater.
Precautions:
- Make sure all lights are working properly.
- Pay special attention to pedestrians crossing the road
Late at night/early morning (0:00-5:00)
Risk factors:
- Someone may be driving under the influence of alcohol.
- Road maintenance work is underway
- The driver may be overconfident or fatigued.
Precautions:
- Avoid unnecessary nighttime driving
- If you must drive, you should be extra cautious.
Analysis of traffic accident data related to rain in Hong Kong
Annual data trends (2018-2022)
| years | Total number of traffic accidents | Number of traffic accidents in rainy weather | Rainy days percentage | Fatal accidents on rainy days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 15,821 | 3,564 | 22.5% | 12 |
| 2019 | 16,203 | 3,782 | 23.3% | 14 |
| 2020 | 12,987 | 2,856 | 22.0% | 8 |
| 2021 | 13,542 | 3,021 | 22.3% | 10 |
| 2022 | 14,326 | 3,298 | 23.0% | 11 |
Monthly distribution (average from 2018 to 2022)
| month | Unexpected numbers on rainy days | Rainfall (mm) | Unexpected/Rainfall Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 187 | 35.2 | 5.31 |
| February | 201 | 47.8 | 4.21 |
| March | 256 | 82.1 | 3.12 |
| April | 298 | 174.7 | 1.71 |
| May | 354 | 304.2 | 1.16 |
| June | 412 | 456.1 | 0.90 |
| July | 386 | 376.5 | 1.03 |
| August | 372 | 432.2 | 0.86 |
| September | 321 | 327.8 | 0.98 |
| October | 234 | 100.9 | 2.32 |
| November | 198 | 39.8 | 4.97 |
| December | 175 | 26.8 | 6.53 |
Map showing the distribution of traffic accidents during rainy days in Hong Kong by month.
Analysis shows:
- May to September is the peak season for rainy weather accidents, which coincides with Hong Kong's rainy season.
- Although June has the highest rainfall, July has a higher ratio of unexpected rainfall to total rainfall, which may be related to the typhoon season.
- The ratio of unexpected rainfall is highest in dry months (such as December), indicating that small amounts of rainfall are actually more dangerous.
Time period analysis (2022 data)
| Time period | Unexpected numbers on rainy days | Percentage of the whole day | Fatal Accidents |
|---|---|---|---|
| 00:00-06:00 | 412 | 12.5% | 3 |
| 06:00-09:00 | 587 | 17.8% | 2 |
| 09:00-12:00 | 498 | 15.1% | 1 |
| 12:00-15:00 | 512 | 15.5% | 1 |
| 15:00-18:00 | 672 | 20.4% | 2 |
| 18:00-21:00 | 482 | 14.6% | 2 |
| 21:00-24:00 | 335 | 10.2% | 0 |
Chart 3: Time Distribution of Traffic Accidents in Rainy Weather in Hong Kong in 2022
Key findings:
- Rainy weather accidents accounted for a total of 38.21 TP3T during morning and evening rush hours (06:00-09:00 and 15:00-18:00).
- Although traffic is low in the early morning hours, the proportion of fatal accidents is relatively high.
- The afternoon period (3:00 PM - 6:00 PM) is the time when accidents are most concentrated on rainy days.
Regional distribution (2022 data)
| area | Unexpected numbers on rainy days | percentage of Hong Kong | Main roads |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hong Kong Island | 672 | 20.4% | Gloucester Road, Hennessy Road |
| Kowloon | 1,254 | 38.0% | Nathan Road, Prince Edward Road West |
| New Territories East | 825 | 25.0% | Da Lao Shan Highway, Tolo Highway |
| New Territories West | 547 | 16.6% | Tuen Mun Road, Castle Peak Road |
| outlying islands | 0 | 0% | – |
Chart 4: Distribution of Traffic Accidents in Rainy Weather in Hong Kong
Key points of analysis:
- Kowloon has the highest rate of accidents during rainy days, which may be related to population density and road design.
- The accident rate is higher on highways in the New Territories East during rainy weather.
- The Hong Kong Island business district unexpectedly saw a surge in business activity during commuting hours due to rain.
Vehicle maintenance and rain preparation
Pre-rainy season inspection
| Inspection items | standard | Inspection cycle |
|---|---|---|
| wiper blades | No stripes, no pulsation | Every 3 months |
| Tire tread depth | Not less than 1.6mm | per month |
| Tire pressure | Meets manufacturer's recommended values | per month |
| Lighting system | All lights are working normally. | per month |
| Braking system | The braking force is balanced and there are no abnormal noises. | Every 6 months |
| Windshield coating | The water droplet effect is obvious. | Every 3 months |
Rainy Day Emergency Equipment
Essential items:
- spare wiper
- Glass cleaner
- Waterproof flashlight
- Reflective triangle sign
- dry towel
Recommended items:
- Car dehumidifier
- spare clothes
- Waterproof shoe covers
- Emergency contact card
Long-term parked vehicles
Parking recommendations during the rainy season:
- Try to avoid parking in the open air.
- Use a car cover for protection
- Start the engine regularly to prevent the battery from running out.
Pre-use inspection:
- Is the braking system rusted?
- Is the tire deformed?
- Are electronic devices damp?
Conclusions and Recommendations
Summary of key findings
- Approximately 231 traffic accidents in Hong Kong occur on rainy days, although rainy days account for only about 201 traffic accidents per year.
- Rainy days are most concentrated during the rainy season from May to September, especially from June to August.
- The afternoon period (3:00 PM - 6:00 PM) is the peak time for unexpected rainy weather.
- Kowloon has the highest proportion of rainy-day accidents, accounting for approximately 381% of all accidents in Hong Kong.
- The unexpected/rainfall ratio is actually higher during periods of light rainfall (such as in winter).
Advice for drivers
Preventive measures:
- Conduct a thorough vehicle inspection before the rainy season.
- Download the real-time traffic and weather app
- Plan your trip to avoid peak hours and unexpected dark spots.
Driving habits:
- Automatically increases safe distance in rainy weather
- Avoid unnecessary lane changes and overtaking.
- Pay special attention to the first 30 minutes of rainfall (when the roads are most slippery).
Education and training:
- Take a skid-resistant driving course
- Learn emergency handling skills
- Regularly review traffic safety knowledge
Recommendations to policymakers
- Strengthen law enforcement and patrols during high-risk periods and on high-risk road sections.
- Improve the drainage system in waterlogged areas.
- Add special speed limits for rainy weather at accidental black spots.
- Strengthen public education, especially regarding the understanding that "a little rainfall carries a higher risk".
- Promote the use of intelligent transportation systems to provide real-time road conditions
Appendix: Safety Checklist for Driving in Rainy Weather
Pre-departure checks:
- The wipers are working properly.
- All lights are working properly.
- Sufficient tire tread depth
- Oil-free glass cleaning
- Braking system is normal
Precautions while driving:
- Maintain a safe distance
- Use lights appropriately
- Avoid sudden operations
- Beware of water accumulation on the road.
- Check the rearview mirror regularly
Emergency handling:
- When the car skids, release the accelerator and point the steering wheel in the desired direction.
- Find a safe place to park when visibility is extremely low.
- Do not restart the engine after the vehicle has stalled due to water ingress.
- Call the police for help immediately if necessary.
Further reading:
