Once the rain begins to fall, it’s much easier to lose traction.  Of course, most people slow down when the rainfall is heavy or makes it challenging to see, however there are many other tips that can help you maneuver in the wet conditions.

• Exercise extreme caution after a long dry spell.  During a dry period, engine oil and grease build up on the road over time.  When mixed with water from a new rainfall, the road can become very slick.  If rainfall continues, it will eventually wash away the oil, however the first few hours are typically the most dangerous.
• Allow for more travel time.   This should be the most obvious tip for drivers and you should plan to drive at a slower pace than normal.  There’s also the possibility that your preplanned route may be flooded or jammed.  This means that if you’re in a rush, there is more risk.
• Brake earlier and with less force than you normally would.  Not only does this increase the stopping distance between you and the car in front of you, it also lets the driver behind you know that you’re slowing down.  Make sure you’re using your turn signals as well.
• Stay toward the middle of the road.  In most cases, roads in America are crowned in the middle, which means the water should run to the sides.  However, this isn’t always the case, so make sure you’re still being cautious.
• Don’t drive through high water or attempt attempt to cross running water.  Be practical about where you drive.  If you’re not in an SUV, truck or other higher elevated vehicle, you may not realize how close your car is to the ground, especially in times of high water.  It could cost you a significant amount of money in repairs if you drive through water.
• Turn on your headlights.  It helps you see the road, and more importantly, it helps other motorists see you.  However, don’t don’t use your high beams in the heavy rain or fog because it obscures your view further, as the light will reflect back at you off the water droplets in the air.  If your car has fog lights, you may find it helpful to turn them on.
• Defog your windows.  Rain quickly causes your windshield to fog up.  Make sure both front and rear defrosters are on 
  so that you’re able to see traffic and streets around you.
• When you hydroplane, do not brake suddenly or turn the wheel.  If you do, you might spin into a skid.  Release the gas pedal slowly and steer straight until the car regains traction.  If you must brake, tap the brake pedal (unless you have anti lock brakes, in which case you can put your foot down).

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