Driving in the rain can be challenging—even for experienced drivers. Wet roads reduce traction, heavy rainfall limits visibility, and sudden braking becomes riskier. Whether you’re a new driver or refreshing your skills, knowing how to drive safely in rainy conditions is essential.

At Sun Driving Academy, we teach our students how to stay calm, confident, and in control in all types of weather. Here are the most important safety tips every driver should know when driving in the rain.

1. Slow Down and Maintain a Safe Distance

Wet roads reduce tire traction, making it harder to stop suddenly.
✔ Reduce your speed by 10–20 km/h depending on rain intensity
✔ Increase your following distance to at least 4–6 seconds

This gives you more time to react and helps prevent rear-end collisions.

2. Turn On Your Headlights Early

Even light rain can reduce visibility for both you and other drivers.
✔ Use low-beam headlights (avoid high beams)
✔ This ensures other drivers see you clearly in rainy or foggy conditions

In many provinces, including Ontario, headlights must be on whenever wipers are used—so stay compliant and stay safe.

3. Avoid Sudden Braking or Steering

Sudden movements can easily cause skidding or hydroplaning.
✔ Brake gently and gradually
✔ Keep the steering wheel steady
✔ Accelerate smoothly to maintain control on slippery roads

4. Beware of Hydroplaning

Hydroplaning occurs when your tires lose contact with the road due to water buildup.

If your vehicle starts to hydroplane:

• Stay calm

• Gently ease off the accelerator

• Keep the wheel straight

• Avoid hard braking

Your car will naturally regain traction after a few seconds.

5. Keep Your Windshield Clear

Visibility is key in rainy weather.
✔ Ensure windshield wipers are in good condition
✔ Use the defroster to prevent fogging
✔ Keep the inside of your windshield clean to reduce glare

6. Avoid Puddles and Flooded Areas

Large puddles may hide potholes, debris, or deep water.
✔ Drive around deep water when possible
✔ Never drive through water higher than the bottom of your bumper
✔ Slow down to avoid splashing and losing control

7. Use Cruise Control Carefully

Avoid using cruise control in heavy rain.
Manual control provides better traction and quicker reaction times.
Only use cruise control in light rain when road conditions are stable.

8. Check Your Tires Regularly

Your tires are your vehicle’s only contact with the road.
✔ Maintain proper tire pressure
✔ Ensure tread depth is safe
✔ Replace worn-out tires immediately

Better traction equals safer driving in the rain.

9. Stay Focused and Avoid Distractions

Rainy conditions require full concentration.
✔ Keep both hands on the wheel
✔ Avoid using your phone
✔ Reduce music volume
✔ Stay alert for sudden stops

Even small distractions can become dangerous on wet roads.

10. Know When to Pull Over

Sometimes, the safest choice is to stop driving.
✔ Visibility is extremely low
✔ Wipers cannot keep up
✔ You feel unsafe or stressed

Pull over safely into a parking lot or rest area until conditions improve.