Taxi in spring weather: Safety in rain, fog and pollen film

N According to the automobile club, in spring dry and wet road surfaces often change abruptly. This significantly changes the grip of the tires. When rain begins, the braking distance increases noticeably. A particularly critical factor is a film of pollen or blossom residues that could make the road surface even more slippery.

For taxi operations with frequent stops and starts in city traffic, this means an increased risk. The club recommends continuously adjusting speed to the current road conditions and maintaining a sufficient distance to the vehicle in front.

Aquaplaning dependent on tire tread depth

As the ACE explains further, aquaplaning on new tires with a tread depth of seven millimeters usually occurs only from around 80 km/h. However, this tread depth is typically reached only shortly after purchase. As wear increases, the tires' ability to evacuate water from the road decreases. With every millimeter less of remaining tread, aquaplaning sets in earlier. Depending on the water film, it can already occur at 50 km/h.

For wet roads, the statement thus basically says: reduce speed, avoid abrupt steering movements and do not brake hard.

Lighting and visibility in focus

Sudden showers or morning fog can significantly reduce visibility. The ACE advises turning on the vehicle's lighting early to increase one's own visibility. Daytime running lights are not enough for this, as they only illuminate ahead. Drivers should also not rely on the automatic lighting system, especially in fog and partly in rain.

Fog lights may be used in appropriate weather conditions such as fog, rain or snowfall. If visibility drops below 50 meters, the rear fog light must be switched on and the speed limited to a maximum of 50 km/h. This requirement explicitly also applies on motorways. If visibility improves, fog lights and the rear fog light must be switched off again.