How To: Stay safe driving in the rain

Worried about your next drive in the rain? Do you feel you & your car are not prepared? Stay safe in a downpour with these tips to handle slippery, wet pavement and reduced visibility.

You Will Need:
• Quality tires and windshield wipers
• Rain dispersant
• Awareness of driving conditions
• Patience

Step 1: Be prepared
Check your windshield wipers and tires for wear and keep your tires properly inflated. Treat your windshield with a rain dispersant.

Step 2: Be aware
Pay attention to changes in driving conditions during rain. Visibility and traction will be reduced.

Step 3: Light up
Turn on your headlights when you engage your windshield wipers. You'll see better and be visible to other drivers.

Step 4: Slow down
Slow down to avoid hydroplaning. If you speed, a thin layer of water can develop between your tires and the road, leading to loss of control.

Step 5: Be smooth
Avoid sudden stops and quick acceleration on wet roads, as these can lead to skids.

Step 6: Know your brakes
Prevent skids by using a gentle pumping action with standard brakes and applying a firm, even pressure to anti-lock brakes.

Step 7: Swerve if you have to
Swerve to avoid a collision. Anti-lock brakes will let you steer without releasing the brakes.

Trivia: A 1 inch rainfall equals 22,651 gallons of water per acre, which weighs over 100 tons.