Rain not only reduces tire grip on wet surfaces but also limits visibility — a double challenge for any driver. So what should you focus on to stay safe in rainy conditions? Here’s a practical checklist to help you maintain control.

Before You Start Driving

• Tires: Ensure your tread depth is at least 4 mm and that tire pressures are correctly set. Worn or underinflated tires significantly increase the risk of skidding and hydroplaning.
• Wipers: Make sure your windshield washer reservoir is full and your wiper blades are in good condition. Clear visibility is one of the most critical factors for safe driving.

While Driving

• Reduce your speed. On highways, aim to drive at least 20 km/h (12 mph) below the posted speed limit when the road is wet.
  Braking capability decreases far more on slippery surfaces than most drivers expect.
• Avoid sudden maneuvers.
  Sharp steering inputs or abrupt braking can upset the vehicle’s balance and lead to a loss of traction.
• Increase your following distance. Maintain at least a 4-second gap between you and the vehicle ahead.
  To check this, pick a fixed roadside object (such as a signpost). When the car in front passes it, count: “one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two, one-thousand-three, one-thousand-four.” If you reach the same point before you finish counting, you’re following too closely.
• Slow down before puddles and standing water.
  Entering a puddle too quickly can cause hydroplaning — when tires ride on top of water and lose contact with the road surface. When that happens, steering and braking become almost impossible.
• Don’t use cruise control in heavy rain.
  If your tires lose traction, cruise control may attempt to maintain the set speed even when you lift off the accelerator, increasing the risk of losing control.
• Prevent window fogging.
  Set your air conditioning to fresh-air mode and direct airflow toward the windshield.
  The A/C system removes moisture from the cabin and clears fog much faster.