While learning to drive, it might start raining when you’re on the road. It can be difficult to see past the water droplets, so remember to turn on your windshield wipers. This will improve visibility so you can see all obstacles ahead. To remain safe behind the wheel when it rains, below are additional steps you should take and other practices to avoid.   

Do:

Turn on the headlights. 

It’s often overcast when it rains, so turn on the headlights as soon as you switch on windshield wipers. Many states require drivers to turn on headlights when windshield wipers are on due to the water vapor that’s left on the glass. Having the added illumination also ensures you’ll see cars, pedestrians, traffic signs, and road obstacles clearly in the distance. 

Reduce your speed. 

Speeding is always dangerous, and that’s especially true when it’s raining. When traveling at high speeds, tires can’t move all the water in their path. They will instead hydroplane or slide on the layer of water between the rubber and the road. This is dangerous, as it will be hard to control the vehicle and prevent it from spinning out. To prevent hydroplaning, drive no more than 40 miles per hour on wet pavement.  

Don’t:

Use cruise control.

While learning to drive, you might start to use cruise control for long-distance travel. Although the feature can come in handy to maintain a consistent speed, you should turn it off when driving in the rain. You’ll need to use your brakes more to prevent hydroplaning. Traveling at the constant speed set by cruise control could increase the risk of sliding on the slippery roadways. 

Drive over large puddles. 

If you encounter a massive puddle in the road, resist the urge to drive through it. The puddle could be deeper than it appears, which means water could seep into the engine, damage the undercarriage, or cause electrical systems to malfunction. Wait until the road is clear and carefully maneuver around large pools of standing water. 

If you are learning to drive in the Cincinnati, OH, area, contact the team at Bob Shropshire Sons Driving School for expert instruction. For over 90 years, the school has been providing driving classes to help Hamilton County residents pass their driving tests and become more responsible motorists. The friendly, patient driving school instructors will also share tips to increase your confidence and comfort behind the wheel. To see how they will make learning to drive a less stressful experience, call (513) 721-3915. Visit the school online to learn more about training programs and become a Facebook follower for more tips to prevent auto accidents.