SJFD's Firefighter Paramedic Travis Markowski shares 10 tips for driving safely in the rain.

Driving safely in the rain requires extra caution because wet roads can create dangerous driving conditions. Wet weather contributes to more than 860,000 car crashes in the U.S. each year.* To help keep you and other drivers safe, review these safety tips and stay alert when driving in rainy weather.

10 Safety Tips for Driving in the Rain

1. Make sure your car is in good working order. Before driving in the rain, check your windshield wipers, headlights, taillights, turn signals, tire pressure, and tire tread. Worn tires can reduce traction on wet roads.
2. Plan your route. Check road and traffic conditions before leaving. If possible, avoid driving during severe weather and wait until conditions improve.
3. Turn on your headlights. Headlights improve visibility and help other drivers see you. In California, you must turn on your headlights when using your windshield wipers during bad weather. (California Vehicle Code 24400)
4. Increase your following distance. Wet roads increase stopping distances. Leave extra space between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead. During heavy rain, you may need to double your normal following distance.
5. Slow down. Driving too fast on wet roads can cause hydroplaning, which occurs when your tires lose contact with the road and your vehicle begins to slide. Reduce your speed and adjust for current road conditions.
6. Avoid sudden movements. Use smooth, gentle movements when steering, braking, and accelerating.
7. Do not use cruise control in wet conditions. Cruise control may reduce your ability to respond quickly if your vehicle begins to lose traction. Stay focused and maintain control of your vehicle.
8. Avoid standing water. Driving through standing water can cause hydroplaning and may damage your vehicle. If water covers the road markings, it may be too deep to safely drive through. Turn around and find another route.
9. Know what to do if you hydroplane. Stay calm and avoid sudden braking. Ease off the accelerator and continue steering in the direction your vehicle is traveling until your tires regain traction. If your vehicle has anti-lock brakes, you can brake normally.
10. Pull over if needed. If you cannot see clearly, have trouble controlling your vehicle, or conditions become unsafe, pull over when it is safe to do so. Rain can also cause your windows to fog. Use your vehicle’s defrost or ventilation system to improve visibility, or pull over if you cannot see safely.