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Rain leads to slippery roads By Vickie Aldous Updated: Oct 21, 2022 08:06 PM A A ODOT urges drivers to be cautious Rain this weekend might finally bring an end to wildfire smoke, but it also causes slick, treacherous roads as oil and grease are brought to the road surface. The Oregon Department of Transportation is warning drivers to be wary of dangerous conditions as summer-like weather finally transitions into the typical rainy weather of fall. Autumn leaves on roads can add to the slipperiness of roads. Drivers should also watch out for snow in the mountains and fog, ODOT said. Even before this weekend’s rain, blinding visibility caused by fog, smoke and other forms of haze was especially hazardous along I-5 north of Eugene. Poor conditions contributed to dozens of crashes and car pile-ups, ODOT said. ODOT offered these tips for driving in wet conditions or when visibility is limited: Be aware of conditions. Rain can create dangerous driving with reduced visibility, and reduced traction between tires and the road means less predictable car handling. When it’s raining, be cautious and give yourself more time to get where you’re going. Slow down, especially in high water. Driving through several inches of water at high speeds can cause you to lose control. Lowering your speed also helps you make sudden stops if you encounter disabled cars, debris and other hazards. Rain is equally hazardous to bicyclists. Traction decreases, braking can be unsteady and skidding cars can present an even greater threat. Turn on your headlights to improve visibility and to help other drivers see you. Keep your distance. A car needs two to three times more stopping distance on wet roads. Replace wiper blades regularly and make sure your defroster is functioning properly, especially if you haven’t used it in a while. Check your brakes. After driving through a puddle, make sure the brakes are working properly by tapping them gently a few times. Check your tires. Make sure tires are in good condition and are at the recommended inflation level. Tires should have at least 1/32 of an inch tread depth at any two adjacent grooves, the minimum allowable by law. Driving on over-inflated or under-inflated tires is dangerous on wet pavement. Watch for hydroplaning. Hydroplaning occurs when your front tires surf on a film of water. It can occur at speeds as low as 35 mph, especially if tires are worn. If you hydroplane, ease off the gas, gently apply the brakes and steer straight ahead. Don’t use cruise control in the rain. Keep an even sharper eye out for other drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians when visibility is poor.