Driving safely when the rainy season arrives

The first heavy rains after a dry spell are often the most slippery, as oil and grime lift off the pavement before washing away. That is exactly when traction matters most and when many drivers are caught off guard.

Your tires do the quiet work of channeling water away from the road. When tread gets shallow, that channel collapses and the tire starts to float on a film of water. A coin test is a thirty-second way to know where you stand.

Visibility is the other half of wet-weather safety. Replace wiper blades that streak or chatter, keep the washer reservoir full, and clean cloudy headlight lenses so other drivers can see you.

Behind the wheel, the rules are simple: slow down, leave more space, and avoid sudden inputs. Smooth steering and gentle braking keep your tires planted when the road is slick.