AAA wants drivers to be prepared for driving in wet weather. 

First, if you don’t have to drive during a storm, stay off of the roads.  It is the best way to keep your family safe.  Flooded and debris covered roadways can put you in serious danger.  Visibility, traction, steering and braking may all be impaired.

If you do have to head out during bad weather, be extremely careful.  On wet roads, motorists must allow more space between vehicles. More space is required to brake safely.

Here are several reminders for dealing with unfavorable roadway conditions:

Low Visibility

When visibility is poor, the odds of having a collision in wet weather significantly increase. Hard rain can limit visibility and make it difficult to see the road, traffic signs, and other vehicles. Motorists should:

- Keep windshield and windows clean
- Make sure windshield wipers are new or clean
- Use defroster to keep front and rear windshields clean
- If windows gets foggy, slightly open a window and turn the defroster fan to a high speed
- If a vehicle is not equipped with daytime running lights, use low-beam headlights
- If visibility is so reduced that it’s impossible to see the road, other vehicles or traffic signs, pull off safely to the side of the road and wait.
- If you do pull off to the side of the road, be sure to turn your headlights off and your emergency flashes on.

Reduced-traction Driving

Poor traction is especially dangerous during the first 10 minutes of a heavy downpour. Oil and debris from the roads will rise up and later wash away. When motorists are aware of how to maneuver a vehicle in poor traction areas, it will reduce the chance of hydroplaning, skidding or getting caught in mud.

- If wheels are stuck in the mud or soft shoulder, apply power slowly
- To reduce chances of hydroplaning, slow down, avoid braking hard or making sharp turns
- If rear wheels skid, ease foot off the brake; if front wheels skid, ease off the gas.

Avoiding Collisions

- Motorists should always drive defensively to avoid a collision. If an obstacle is encountered, it is better to steer around it, than to brake at speeds above 25 mph.
- Avoid using cruise control in wet weather, because at specific speeds, it increases the chance of losing control of your vehicle.
- Try to remain off roadways unless absolutely necessary or until the weather improves. Remain aware of road conditions, stay tuned to weather forecasts and be prepared for challenging situations in the event that you must drive.