My Scary Experience Driving in the Rain: Tips to Help You Drive Safer in Wet Conditions by Tara Bernardin

As I exited the off ramp, I realized the lights off the highway were not lit and there was a huge puddle of water on the ramp, which was probably due to recent construction. I didn’t think I was going to fast and actually I think I went even slower than usual due to the circumstances, but I still lost control of the car. 

Thankfully there were no cars around me. The car spun around. I slammed on the brakes and in split seconds my mind raced and reminded me to pump the brakes. I did so and my car eventually stopped spinning and came to a stop. 

My heart was beating so fast that I thought I was going to have an attack. I said a quick prayer and moved the car off the ramp and pulled over to the side of the road. I had to regain my composure. I realized how close I had come to seriously hurting myself and if any other car was around, possibly another individual. 

Now when it rains I am even more cautious, and even though drivers behind my might be annoyed about how slow I am driving in the rain, I am doing so for their safety and mine.

Here are some tips from AAA on driving in the rain:

• Avoid using cruise control. To prevent loss of traction, you need to reduce the car’s speed by lifting off the accelerator, which cannot be accomplished when cruise control is engaged.

• Slow down and leave room. Slowing down during wet weather driving can be critical to reducing a car’s chance of hydroplaning, when the tires rise up on a film of water. To reduce chances of hydroplaning, you should slow down, avoid hard braking or turning sharply and drive in the tracks of the vehicle ahead of you.

• Know how to respond to a skid. If your car begins to skid, continue to look and steer in the direction in which you want the car to go. Avoid slamming on the brakes as this will further upset the vehicle’s balance and make it harder to control.

• Be prepared. Before hitting the road, check your windshield wiper blades, all lights and tire air pressure. 

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