Rain is one of the most common weather conditions that impacts driving safety. Wet roads, poor visibility, and slick surfaces create challenges that can trip up even seasoned drivers. Studies show that about 20% of all traffic accidents worldwide are tied to bad weather, including rain. So, how do you get ready to drive in the rain and keep risks to a minimum? In this article, we’ll break down the essentials: from prepping your car to mastering techniques for handling wet roads.
Getting Your Car Rain-Ready
Before hitting the road in the rain, make sure your vehicle is up to the task. Here are some steps to dodge any nasty surprises.
- Check Your Windshield Wipers
Wipers are your first line of defense against lousy visibility. Ensure the blades aren’t worn out and can clear water off your windshield effectively. If they’re streaking or squeaking, swap them out. Also, peek at the washer fluid level—rain means more dirt and drops on your windshield, so you’ll need extra fluid to keep it clean. - Inspect Your Tires
Tires are critical for gripping wet pavement. Check the tread depth: the legal minimum is 1.6 mm, but for safe driving in rain, aim for at least 3–4 mm. Tires with deep grooves for water drainage cut down the chance of hydroplaning—when your car loses traction on a layer of water. - Test Your Lights
Rain dims visibility, so working headlights, fog lights, and taillights aren’t just a rule—they’re a safety must. Turn on your low beams even during the day if the rain’s heavy, and use fog lights in thick mist. Double-check that all bulbs are good to go. - Brakes and Suspension
Wet brake pads can lag a bit, so give them a once-over before you roll out. Suspension matters too: worn shocks make your car less steady on slippery roads. - Treat Your Windows
Apply a water-repellent coating (often called “rain guard”) to your windows. It’ll boost visibility by making drops slide off faster, easing the load on your wipers.
Driving Techniques for Rainy Days
With your car set, it’s time to focus on driving. In the rain, you’ve got to ease up and stay cautious. Here’s the rundown.
- Slow Down
Wet roads stretch your stopping distance by 1.5 to 2 times. Drop your speed by 10–20 mph below normal and keep double the usual gap from the car ahead. That extra space buys you reaction time. - Avoid Sudden Moves
Hard braking, quick acceleration, or sharp turns can send you skidding. Steer smoothly and tap the pedals lightly. If you’ve got an automatic transmission, switch to “rain” or “winter” mode if it’s an option. - Handle Hydroplaning
Hydroplaning happens when your tires can’t push water aside, and your car starts to float. If the steering feels loose and the car won’t respond, don’t freak out: ease off the gas gently, avoid slamming the brakes, and keep the wheel straight until you regain traction. - Steer Clear of Puddles
Deep puddles hide trouble—potholes, rocks, or debris—and hitting one fast ups your hydroplaning odds. If you can’t dodge it, slow way down and roll through easy, no jerky moves. - Use Lights and Signals
Flip on your low beams or fog lights so others can spot you. If the rain’s bad enough to pull over, hit the hazard lights and park somewhere safe, not on a busy shoulder.
Dealing with Low Visibility
Rain often brings fog, spray from other cars, and foggy windows. Here’s how to keep your view clear:
- Adjust Ventilation: Crank the AC or aim warm air at the windows to stop fogging. No AC? Crack a window a bit.
- Clean Mirrors: Side mirrors get coated with drops fast. Use heated mirrors if you’ve got them, or wipe them down before you start.
- Follow Road Markings: When visibility tanks, stick to lane lines and reflectors to stay on track.
Driving in a Downpour
Heavy rain isn’t just annoying—it’s dangerous. If you can barely see a few yards ahead and water’s flooding the road, pull over and wait it out. Find a safe spot like a gas station, parking lot, or wide shoulder. Skip parking under trees or billboards that could topple in the wind.
If you can’t stop:
- Crawl along, tailing the lights of the car ahead (but not too close).
- Avoid low spots and bridges where water pools.
- Watch the water level: if it’s above your door’s bottom edge, don’t chance it—your engine could stall from water damage.
Staying Sharp Mentally
Rain doesn’t just test your driving skills—it wears on your mind. Hours of tense driving tire you out, and the patter of rain can distract. Take a break every 1.5–2 hours to recharge. Keep water and a snack handy to stay focused.
Post-Rain Checkup
After driving in the rain, give your car some TLC:
- Dry the brake pads by tapping the pedal a few times at low speed.
- Check the interior for leaks.
- Wipe down headlights and windows to clear off grime for next time.