Rain is terrific for agriculture, soothing when it gets too hot, and just calming overall. But rain, when you are driving, is a potential hazard. Driving in wet weather conditions should be done with extra care by road users since visibility and adherence to the road are drastically reduced.
Here are some tips for wet weather driving that should help you remember how to minimise risks and control your vehicle as well as you can. Wet conditions should become a trigger for taking these safety measures because driving normally is not safe enough during such weather conditions.
Make Sure You See Others and Are Seen by Others
Once it starts raining, you should turn on your lights and windscreen wipers and verify that you know where the demister control is. You should use all the means you have to see where other vehicles are and be prepared to react quicker in case visibility is reduced drastically by heavy rain.
Ensure your windows don’t get foggy by having your air conditioner on and using both demisters, from front and back windshields.
Visibility can also be affected by the water spraying from the vehicle in front of you. Because of this, and not only for this reason, you should increase the distance you have to the car in front of you and drive on the left side of the road. This helps reduce spray and allows you to drive in the tracks of the vehicles ahead, where the road may be slightly drier and offer more traction.
Anticipate a Longer Braking Time
On wet roads, the road surface becomes slick, and stopping distances increase. You should decrease your speed and keep a safe distance between you and other cars to accommodate this difference in case you need to brake suddenly. A lot of minor accidents happen in cities in wet weather, since the traffic is heavier than normal and drivers don’t allow more space in between them and others.
Watch out for puddles and standing water, especially when you are driving fast (over 70 km/h). They can cause hydroplaning, which is losing the grip on the road when you get too much water between the road and your tires. Keep an eye on brake lights ahead to anticipate slowing traffic early.
Control Your Car Properly During Wet Weather
Controlling your car is a little bit different in wet weather. Make sure you get some practice before you go on a long road in wet conditions and avoid driving if you are not confident in your skills or the weather gets too bad.
Turn the cruise control off and try to avoid the pooling of water. If your car does hydroplane, do not brake or turn the wheels, as this makes you lose control easier. Slow down by taking your foot off the gas or pressing the brake very gently, and keep the car straight.
Don’t forget to check your tyres before you head out—adequate tread depth and proper pressure are essential for maintaining grip on slippery roads. Perform regular checks to ensure your tyres are in good condition.
Learn Wet Weather Driving with LTrent
LTrent Driving School offers a comprehensive wet weather driving course as part of our Safer Drivers Course. You’ll learn essential skills for driving safely in challenging conditions and get real-world practice that prepares you to stay safe on the road.
Need driving lessons in Sydney, Melbourne, Central Coast, Newcastle, or Illawarra? Contact us today to build confidence and safety skills in all kinds of weather.
FAQs: Wet Weather Driving Tips
What is the safest way to approach wet winter driving?
In wet winter driving conditions, reduce speed, increase following distance, and avoid abrupt maneuvers. Always check weather forecasts and avoid travel in severe storms when possible. For more information, visit our guide on safe winter driving.
Why is tyre maintenance important in wet weather?
Your tyres are your only contact with the road, so check your tyres regularly for tread depth and air pressure. This is essential for traction and helps prevent hydroplaning on slick roads.
How can I prevent hydroplaning while driving in wet weather conditions?
To prevent hydroplaning, maintain a safe speed, avoid puddles and standing water, and ensure your tyres are properly inflated. If you do hydroplane, ease off the accelerator and steer straight until you regain traction.
What distance should I keep from the vehicle in front during rain?
Double the standard following distance during rain. Keeping a greater distance from the vehicle in front gives you more time to react and brake gradually without skidding.
Is it better to drive in the tracks of the car ahead?
Yes, drive in the tracks of the car ahead when possible. Their tyres will have displaced some water, improving traction for your own vehicle and making the road surface slightly drier.
