Traffic School Quick

Rainy Road Adjustments

When rain hits the road, everything about driving changes—traction, stopping distance, visibility, and even how your car reacts to turns. Drivers who can adapt quickly are the ones who stay safest.

On a wet road, your tires don’t grip as well. That means you need more time and space for everything—stopping, turning, or merging. Double your following distance to at least four seconds behind the car ahead. If you can’t stop smoothly, you’re too close. Keeping extra space gives you time to handle surprises without slamming the brakes.

Watch out for puddles and standing water. Hydroplaning can happen at speeds as low as 35 miles per hour, especially if your tires are worn. If it happens, don’t hit the brakes or jerk the wheel. Simply ease off the accelerator and steer gently until your tires regain traction.

Focus is essential when driving in the rain. Turn down distractions, keep both hands on the wheel, and continuously scan the road for brake lights or hazards. If visibility gets too poor, don’t hesitate to pull over in a safe spot and wait for conditions to improve. It’s better to arrive late than have a traffic emergency.

Before the rainy season starts, give your vehicle a quick checkup. Make sure your wipers are fresh, headlights are bright, and tires are in good condition. A few simple maintenance steps can make a major difference in safety when the weather turns bad.

Rainy weather doesn’t have to be risky—it just requires extra attention and the right mindset.