Rain changes the way your tires grip the road and how far you can see. The safest response is usually simple: slow down, increase space, and make sure your car is ready for wet conditions.

Reduce speed before traction disappears

Wet roads can reduce tire grip. Brake earlier and steer smoothly to avoid sudden changes that may upset the vehicle. Keep a larger gap behind the car ahead.

Standing water can conceal potholes or deeper flooded areas. Never assume a puddle is shallow enough to drive through.

Know what to do if the car hydroplanes

Hydroplaning happens when water reduces the tire’s contact with the road. If steering feels suddenly light, ease off the accelerator, keep steering inputs gentle, and avoid abrupt braking.

If your car has stability or anti-lock braking systems, do not assume they can restore traction when tires are floating on water.

Help other drivers see you

Use headlights when required by your state’s weather and visibility rules, and avoid relying only on daytime running lights. Replace worn wipers and keep glass clean.

If visibility becomes dangerously poor, pull over in a safe location away from moving lanes instead of trying to push through.

Inspect tires before storm season

Monitor tire pressure and tread condition. Bald or damaged tires are particularly risky in standing water. Schedule replacement if tread is worn or the tire has damage.

After deep-water exposure, mechanical or electrical systems may need evaluation. Do not attempt to drive through floodwater.

Put it into practice

Before your next stormy commute, give yourself a few extra minutes. Check the forecast, look over your wipers, and make sure the tires are properly inflated. If conditions deteriorate on the way, find a safe place to stop rather than trying to maintain your usual arrival time. No appointment is worth driving through floodwater.

Your quick checklist

  • Inspect wiper blades and clean the windshield.
  • Check tire tread and cold inflation pressure.
  • Turn on appropriate lights for visibility and local laws.
  • Slow down and increase following distance.
  • Avoid flooded roads and deep standing water.
The bottom lineThe best wet-weather safety tool is more margin: lower speed, more space, better visibility, and healthy tires.
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