Driving in Heavy Rain: 8 Tips to Stay Safe

 Heavy rain changes everything. The road is slippery, you can't see as far, and the car takes longer to stop. A few simple habits make driving in the rain much safer.

Slow down and leave more space when the road is wet.

Eight tips

1. Slow down. Lower speed gives you more time to react, and it cuts the risk of losing grip.
2. Leave more space. Stopping takes longer on a wet road, so keep a much bigger gap than usual.
3. Turn on your headlights. You need to see, and other drivers need to see you.
4. Be smooth. Brake, steer and accelerate gently. Sudden moves can start a skid.
5. Keep the glass clear. Use the demister and the air conditioning to stop the windows fogging, and make sure the wipers don't smear. Replace worn blades.
6. Take extra care at the start of the rain. The first rain can bring oil up to the surface and make the road very slippery.
7. Stay out of deep water. If you can't see how deep the water on the road is, don't drive through it. Water can stall or damage the engine, and it can float a car. Turn around.
8. Check your tires. Good tread and the right pressure help the tires push water away. Old, worn tires are dangerous in the rain.

What if the car aquaplanes?

Aquaplaning means the tires are riding on a layer of water and have lost contact with the road. The steering may suddenly feel light. Stay calm. Take your foot off the accelerator, hold the steering wheel straight, and don't brake hard or turn sharply. When you feel the grip come back, you can brake or steer gently again.

After driving through water

Test your brakes gently while driving slowly. Wet brakes can work less well for a moment. If they feel weak, press the pedal lightly a few times until they dry.

If the rain is so heavy that you can't see the road, find a safe place to stop, away from traffic and from the edge of the road, and wait.

The best time to check your wipers, lights and tires is before the rainy season starts, not during the first storm.

General information only. Check your owner's manual, and ask a qualified mechanic if you're not sure.