Driving on Wet and Rainy Roads

Before Driving

Driving in wet weather requires gentle use of steering, clutch, brake and accelerator, and more allowance necessary for errors and emergencies. When you get into your car in rain, the bottom of your shoes can be wet and can slip off the pedals, so wipe shoes on carpeting of the car before driving. You should regularly check your headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals to make sure they are working properly.

Tires
Check your tires on a regular basis. Bald tires significantly reduce your traction on wet roadways, and offer little resistance to hydroplaning. When your tires run over water, the water is displaced and it needs somewhere to go quickly. If your tires are bald, the water has no place to go and you end up riding on a layer of water, called Hydroplaning .

Windshield Wipers
Replace your wipers regularly, at least once a year. The best time to replace them is in September or October, as summer heat wears down the rubber. Remember to add windshield washer fluid at the same time.

Windshield
Regularly clean your windshield and windows, both on the inside and out. This will help you see better in good and bad weather.

During Driving

Be alert when driving in wet or slippery conditions. Watch out for brake lights in front of you.
Turn your lights on even in a light rain, so vehicles behind you can see you better.
Drive in the middle lanes - water tends to pool in the outside lanes.
Approach intersections slowly, as these are often filled with oil spots on the road.

Speed, Distance & Braking

Slow down! It takes longer to stop or adjust your car when on wet roads.
Leave plenty of space between you and the car in front-it takes longer to stop.
Always brake gently before entering a curve, especially in wet or ice conditions.
After you drive through a water puddle, test your brakes by applying slowly and pumping.
Avoid slamming on brakes when roads are wet.

Hydroplaning
When your steering becomes loose and your vehicle begins to move from side to side (not in a skid), remember:

Ease off the gas - until steering returns to normal;
Hold steering wheel firmly - steering straight ahead.

NEVER: Apply your brakes or turn steering wheel if hydroplaning.

Skidding: If your car skids, remain calm, ease foot off the gas and carefully steer in the direction you want the front of the car to go. Do not apply the brakes until you are in control.

Varying Weather Conditions

When rain is light or visibility is unclear on your windshield, use your wiper fluid for cleaning.
Foggy windows: Rain can quickly cause windows to fog up inside your car. Use your defroster with cool air. If all else fails, a rag or article of clothing will work as well.
Heavy rain conditions: Sudden heavy rain can quickly reduce visibility. If this occurs pull over with your emergency flashers on and wait for the rain to ease up.

NEVER

Never drive through moving or rushing water if you cannot see the ground through it.
Never follow large trucks or buses too closely, as too much spray reduces visibility.
Never drive over a flooded road, as the road might be washed out under the water. If the water is deeper than the bottom of your doors, do not drive through it.