Heavy rain reduces visibility and traction, and roads are often most slippery in the first minutes of a storm when oil rises to the surface.
Before you drive
- Replace streaky or cracked wiper blades.
- Check tire tread — worn tires can't clear water well.
- Make sure headlights and brake lights work.
On the road
- Slow down and double your following distance.
- Turn on your headlights (Texas law requires them when visibility is low).
- Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns.
- Turn off cruise control.
- Stay toward the middle lanes, where water is usually shallower.
If you hydroplane
Ease off the accelerator, don't slam the brakes, and steer gently in the direction you want to go until the tires regain grip.
