Though the sound of rain hitting your car may feel calming, driving in wet conditions is far from peaceful.

The combination of slippery roads and reduced visibility makes driving in the rain hazardous. In the UK, rain can arrive at any time, regardless of the season, so it’s important to stay prepared. Here are some tips to help you stay safe when the weather turns wet.

Ensure Your Windscreen Wipers Are in Good Condition

One of the most common issues when driving in the rain is reduced visibility, often caused by old or worn-out windscreen wipers. If your wipers aren’t functioning well, they can smear dirt across your windscreen instead of clearing away rainwater, making it even harder to see.

Replacing windscreen wipers is a simple and affordable task. Don’t hesitate to change them if they’re no longer giving you a clear view. While many wiper blades fit multiple vehicles, they’re not universally compatible, so use our fast finder tool to ensure you get the correct set for your car.

Check Your Tyre Tread Depth

Driving with tyre tread below the legal limit of 1.6mm is illegal for a reason. Tread depth is crucial for providing your tyres with the grip they need, which is especially important on wet, slippery roads. If your tyres are worn, it’s time to replace them to prevent skidding or losing control of your vehicle.

Also, ensure your tyres are neither under- nor overinflated to maximize road contact. Poorly inflated tyres can cause accidents, especially in rainy conditions.

Slow Down

Rain reduces your stopping distance, making it necessary to drive slower and allow more space between you and the vehicle in front. Without this extra distance, you won’t have enough time to stop safely.

Also, avoid speeding through standing water, which can cause aquaplaning and make you lose control of your vehicle. Driving too fast through water can also damage your car’s internal components, potentially leading to a breakdown.

De-Mist Your Windscreen

Rain, particularly on cold days, often causes your windscreen to mist up, further reducing visibility. De-mist your windscreen as soon as you notice fog forming by adjusting your air conditioning to balance the inside and outside temperatures.

If your windows fog up frequently, clean them thoroughly and consider using anti-fog treatments. Dirty windscreens attract moisture, making them more likely to mist. Also, check the weather-stripping around your windows and doors to ensure there are no gaps allowing excess moisture inside.

Stay Visible

Rain significantly reduces visibility, not only for you but for other drivers as well. In heavy rain, switch on your dipped headlights to make yourself more visible without dazzling other road users.

After driving in the rain, it’s a good idea to wash your car’s lights, as dirt from the road can reduce their effectiveness. Regularly clean your headlights during the rainy season and replace any bulbs that have dimmed or stopped working.

Test Your Brakes

After driving in heavy rain or through standing water, test your brakes to ensure they’re working properly. If water has seeped into the braking system, it can reduce their effectiveness.

Gently squeeze your brakes as you drive to check their response. If they feel weak, press them a few more times to dry them out. If they still don’t respond properly, safely pull over and call for assistance.

Be Extra Observant

Driving through standing water can cause significant damage to your car, affecting crucial components. Be especially cautious and observant when driving in the rain, watching for hazards like large puddles or slippery leaves to avoid accidents.

Stay Prepared

Harsh weather increases the likelihood of breakdowns, so always be prepared. Keep emergency supplies in your car, such as warm clothing, blankets, food, and a charged phone. In wet weather, it can take longer for recovery services to reach you, so be sure to have what you need in case you’re stuck waiting.

If you need to turn your car off while waiting, remember there will be no heat, so plan accordingly for the cold weather that often accompanies rain.

Drive Conscientiously

While taking precautions for your own safety, don’t forget about the safety of others on the road. Be mindful of cyclists and pedestrians by giving them extra space and avoiding large puddles that could splash those nearby.

Always stay aware of your surroundings and make the safety of others a priority, alongside your own.