Tips for driving safely in the rain

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.

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. Read more in the next tip on how to handle aquaplanning.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.