Driving in the rain

Tips for driving safely in the rain

3 min to readSafety
When it starts to rain, road conditions can change rapidly, often within minutes. Whether you’re navigating city traffic or cruising along the motorway, rain can reduce visibility, decrease tyre grip and make other road users behave unpredictably. These factors combine to increase the risk of accidents.
Share this

From light drizzle to heavy downpours, every stage of a rain event presents different challenges for drivers. The good news is that a few practical habits can help you stay in control and reduce the chances of something going wrong. Here's how to prepare and react when driving in the wet.

01. Slow down from the start

As soon as the first drops hit the tarmac, dirt, dust and oil on the road surface are brought to the surface, making the road extra slippery. This effect is most noticeable at the start of a rain shower so even if it doesn’t look like much, it’s worth reducing your speed early on.

Once the rain becomes heavier and water starts to pool, things can become more dangerous. When your tyres can’t displace water fast enough, they lose contact with the road entirely. This is called aquaplaning, or hydroplaning in some countries, and it means your car is skimming across the water’s surface, without steering or grip. It's a scary situation, but it can be managed.

02. How to handle aquaplaning

If you feel your steering go light or the vehicle drifts unexpectedly, don't panic. Take your foot off the accelerator and keep a firm, steady grip on the steering wheel. Avoid braking sharply, as this can make the skid worse. As the car slows, the tyres will naturally regain contact with the road surface, allowing you to steer again safely.

03. Adjust your speed to the conditions

Even if you're within the legal speed limit, it might still be too fast for wet conditions. Braking distances can double on wet roads, and that means less time to react to sudden hazards. Reducing your speed gives you more control and helps prevent aquaplaning.

04. Leave more space between vehicles

Keeping a greater distance between you and the vehicle in front is one of the simplest ways to stay safe in the rain. It gives you more room to brake gradually and avoid sudden stops. It also helps with visibility, as the spray from other vehicles can reduce your field of view.

05. Watch out for road markings

Painted road markings, such as lane dividers and pedestrian crossings, can become surprisingly slippery when wet. This is especially true for motorcyclists, but all drivers should avoid braking or steering harshly while crossing over these surfaces.

06. Avoid driving through flood water

Flooded roads can pose serious risks even if the water doesn’t look deep. Just 30cm of fast-moving water is enough to float a car, while as little as 15cm can affect steering and cause a loss of control. What’s more, it’s often impossible to judge the depth of the water or spot hidden hazards like open manhole covers, submerged kerbs or road damage. Water can also enter the engine or electrical systems, leading to costly damage or even a complete vehicle breakdown. If you’re ever in doubt, it’s safest to turn around and find an alternative route. No journey is worth the risk.

07. Electric vehicles in wet weather

Driving an electric vehicle (EV) in the rain is just as safe as in a petrol or diesel car. Most EVs come equipped with features like regenerative braking, which slows the car by reversing the electric motor. This helps reduce wear on the brake pads and improves control in slippery conditions. However, it's important to remember that regenerative braking can be strong, so always lift off the accelerator smoothly to avoid abrupt deceleration. EVs are also quieter, so be extra cautious around pedestrians who may not hear you coming through the rain.

Rain doesn't have to stop your journey, just slow it down a little. With the right mindset and a few adjustments, you can stay safe and in control, no matter the weather.

Published at 1 August 2025

1 August 2025
Share this

Related articles

Sustainability
Ana's 5,000km journey in a second hand EV27 June - 4 min to read
Sustainability
Tips to extend your electric car's range30 May - 3 min to read
Safety
Driving with children this summer? Here are 7 safety tips from Volvo Cars22 May - 2 min to read