How to Drive in the Florida Rain

Understanding the road ahead

During the rainy season, road conditions can change dramatically. Knowing what to expect on the road ahead is half the battle. Here's what to look out for...

• During a rain storm the sky can darken. This, paired with poor visibility can impair your ability to see through the rain.
• Wet roads will affect your stopping time and car breaks due to a thin film between your tires and the asphalt
• With the ever changing humidity and temperatures of a storm, your car windows may fog up.
• Oil can build up on the road during dry weather. When it mixes with fresh rain, the conditions can become treacherous.
• Other drivers may still be distracted. Look out for the idiots who haven't prepared!

Driving in the rain

Now that you know what to look out for, it is important to adjust your driving to suit. Some of the points below may seem pretty obvious, but it is important to remind ourselves every now and again.

• Slow down - With less friction on the road, your vehicle's reaction time is much slower when it rains. By slowing down and allowing more time for your journey, you will decrease your chances of losing control of the vehicle.
• Give me some space - With less traction on the road, your breaking distance can almost double in wet conditions. By leaving more space between you and the car in front, you can avoid any near misses.
• Light it up - To help other drivers see your vehicle, you must turn on your headlights. Even if it is raining lightly, you are required to turn your headlights on.
• Eliminate distractions - Everyone knows that it is illegal to use your phone while driving this is a given. During wet conditions, you should even avoid using hands free to make a phone call. In this weather, even the smallest distractions can cause accidents.
• Tire Check - Before the rainy season starts, you must check the tread on your tires. If the tread is worn, your car is more likely to spin out of control. You can check your tires using a simple penny test. First, place a penny into the tread head first. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, you need new tires.
• Switch off cruise control - It is important to control your own speed during heavy rain. Cruise control can cause your engine to accelerate suddenly to maintain speed, which can cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
• Follow my lead - Always drive in the tracks of the car in front of you. That car is leaving a path with less water which is much safer to drive in.
• Avoid puddles - Be on the lookout for puddles on the road and try to avoid them if possible. If you have to drive through a puddle, slow down and tap your brakes lightly afterwards to help them dry off.
• Pull over - If you feel the conditions are too treacherous, you can always stop. Find a spot where it is safe to pull over and wait for the weather to improve.

What to do if you start sliding

Even the most cautious drivers can slide in extreme weather conditions. If this happens, stay calm and remember the following precautions...

• Stay calm
• Don't slam your brakes
• Turn into the slide
• Stay on the road
• Hit the gas
• Recover from the slide

Rain ready!

By now, you should know what to expect and how to react in wet conditions. Please share this article with Florida locals and holiday-goers of all ages, to help keep everyone safe on the road.