When driving in the rain, what should you do?

When driving in the rain, reducing speed and increasing following distance is vital for safe driving. Wet road conditions can lead to decreased tire traction, which increases the risk of skidding or losing control of the vehicle. By lowering your speed, you give yourself more time to react to any hazards, such as sudden stops from other vehicles or changing road conditions.

Increasing the following distance allows more space between you and the vehicle in front, providing a buffer that can be crucial if the leading vehicle brakes suddenly. During rainy conditions, it is also common for roads to be slick or have standing water, which can cause hydroplaning. Having that extra distance and reduced speed allows for better reaction time and helps prevent accidents.

In contrast, using high beams in the rain can create glare and make it harder to see the road clearly, while speeding up to avoid hydroplaning actually increases the risk of losing control. Remaining at the same speed does not compensate for the reduced traction and visibility that come with wet conditions. Therefore, reducing speed and increasing following distance is the most effective and safest approach when driving in the rain.