Wet Weather Driving
Wet roads can result in slippery surfaces, much similar to icy surfaces. Combined with poor visibility, it adds up to potentially hazardous driving conditions - especially at the beginning of a rainstorm.

It starts with a slick coating of oily residue that is typically left on roads by thousands of passing vehicles. This film is especially dangerous during the first 30-60 minutes of a rainstorm (depending on the amount of rainfall). Before enough rain has fallen to wash away the residue, the water combines with the greasy residue and forms a slippery surface. To ensure your safety and the safety of others, check out these helpful hints:

Everything you wanted to know about wet weather driving:

• Visibility:
  • A hard rain can limit visibility. Use your headlights to make sure others see you.

• Regulate your driving:
  • Water on the road surface reduces traction and can hinder vehicle control. Slow down and avoid hard braking and sharp turning.
  • Stopping on a slippery surface requires more distance, so increase the distance between you and the vehicle ahead.

• Braking systems:
  • If you don't have anti-lock brakes, use controlled braking (avoiding locking the brakes) and shift to neutral.
  • If you have anti-lock brakes, use a steady, firm pressure to the brake pedal.

• Tire talk:
  • Good tire treads allow water to escape from under the tires. This lowers the risk of hydroplaning at moderate speeds.
  • Keep tires properly inflated to help maintain traction.

• Windshield maintenance:
  • Ensure the windshield wiper motor is functioning, and that both wiper blades are not worn or split.
  • Keep your windshield and windows clean, both inside and out. If you're a smoker, clear your interior windows regularly of smoke residue.

• Know when to stop:
  • If conditions become too hazardous to continue driving, it's best to pull over.
  • Turn off your headlights, but turn on your emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position on the road.