Tips for Rainy Day Driving in Roanoke, VA

Rainy weather can change everything about how your vehicle handles – even if you're behind the wheel of a well-equipped Volvo. At Berglund Volvo of Roanoke, we know how quickly conditions can shift here in the Blue Ridge foothills, especially during seasonal downpours. Whether you're commuting on I-581 or navigating winding backroads, rain increases your stopping distance, reduces traction, and affects visibility.

We’re committed to helping our customers stay safe on the road, so we’ve created a guide to safely navigating Roanoke roads when the skies open up. We’ll break down exactly what you need to do before, during, and after driving in the rain – with practical advice tailored to real-world driving in Roanoke, VA. We'll walk you through vehicle prep, driving techniques for wet weather, how to handle emergencies like hydroplaning, and important local considerations.

Why Driving in the Rain Demands Extra Caution

Rain reduces tire traction and increases the time it takes for your vehicle to stop. In heavy rain, water can pool on road surfaces, causing vehicles to hydroplane – a dangerous condition where your tires lose contact with the pavement. Even light rain can lift oils from the road, making surfaces slippery. In Roanoke, where hills and sharp turns are common, reduced control can quickly become a serious risk.

Prepare Your Vehicle Before It Rains

Staying safe starts with preparation. A few quick checks can significantly reduce your chances of trouble on the road.

Check these before hitting the road in wet conditions:

• Tire Tread Depth: Ensure your tires have at least 4/32-inches of tread to help water escape under your tires.
• Tire Pressure: Underinflated tires make hydroplaning more likely.
• Windshield Wipers: Replace them every six to 12 months or at the first sign of streaking.
• Brake Pads: Worn pads can lengthen stopping distances, especially on slick roads.
• Headlights and Brake Lights: Visibility is the most important thing for keeping yourself and those around you safe. It’s not just about seeing – but being seen too.

Pro Tip: Schedule a multi-point inspection at Berglund Volvo of Roanoke’s service center before peak rainy seasons like spring and fall.

Driving Tips to Stay Safe in Rainy Weather

Once you're on the road, how you drive plays a more critical role in safety than the type of vehicle you drive. Even all-wheel drive vehicles like many Volvo vehicles can slide if road conditions are bad enough. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Slow Down – Way Down

Wet pavement means it can take two to three times longer to stop your vehicle. Drive at or below the speed limit and increase your following distance to at least four seconds.

Avoid Cruise Control

Cruise control can cause you to accelerate unintentionally in standing water. Always keep full control of your throttle.

Turn on Low-Beam Headlights

Virginia law requires headlights when your wipers are on. Low beams increase your visibility without reflecting light off rain and fog.

Avoid Sudden Movements

Try to refrain from making sharp turns, quick braking, or fast acceleration. These can all cause your tires to lose traction, so make every move gentle and deliberate.

Watch for Standing Water

Be cautious and slow down when approaching large puddles on the road. Hydroplaning occurs most often at speeds above 35 mph. If you see water pooling on the road, steer around it – don’t swerve or brake suddenly.

What to Do If You Hydroplane:

If you feel your steering go light or the car starts sliding:

• Ease off the gas. Do not brake suddenly.
• Hold the wheel straight. Don't jerk the wheel or overcorrect.
• Wait for the tires to regain traction. Once contact is restored, gently steer as needed.

Extra Tips for Driving in Roanoke’s Terrain

Roanoke’s landscape brings unique challenges during rainstorms.

• Steep Grades: Be cautious going downhill – use lower gears to help slow you down.
• Curved Mountain Roads: Reduce speed significantly before curves. Wet leaves and rain can turn into slides.
• Flooded Streets: Watch for flooded spots near the Roanoke River, especially around Wasena Park, Williamson Road, and Garden City – those low-lying areas tend to collect water fast during heavy rain.

Never attempt to drive through a flooded road. Just six inches of water can stall most vehicles, and 12 inches can sweep them away.

Safety for When the Storm Has Passed

Even if the rain has passed, there can still be dangers you can’t see like residual oils and water.

• Wait until roads are clear of debris before washing your vehicle to prevent additional contamination or scratching.
• Get your brakes checked if you drive through standing water.
• Check tire condition – especially if you felt sliding or loss of traction.

Stay Connected and Safe with Volvo

Newer Volvo models are equipped with advanced safety features that shine when the weather turns. Systems like rain-sensing wipers, traction control systems, and weather-adaptive driver assistance keep you grounded, keep your vision clear, and most importantly – keep you safe on the road. If you’re curious about the safety features in your current model or are looking to upgrade some features, the team at Berglund Volvo of Roanoke can help. We’ll explain each spec thoroughly or even help you find the Volvo model that has everything you need built in.

Drive Safer with Berglund Volvo of Roanoke

Don’t wait until the storm hits to think about safety. Let Berglund Volvo of Roanoke help you stay prepared, whether that means checking your tires or helping you find a Volvo equipped for all-weather driving.

Visit our Roanoke showroom or contact us to schedule a service appointment today. Your safety starts here.

Disclaimer: This content was drafted with AI assistance for initial drafting, reviewed by a subject-matter expert for accuracy, and edited by our team of writers and editors.