While winter driving gets most of the attention in Ontario, driving in the rain poses its own set of serious hazards. Reduced visibility, slippery surfaces, and the risk of hydroplaning make rainy conditions a very real danger. Understanding how to adapt your driving is crucial for staying safe in wet weather.

The Danger of Hydroplaning

Hydroplaning (or aquaplaning) occurs when a layer of water builds up between your vehicle's tires and the road surface, leading to a loss of traction that prevents the vehicle from responding to control inputs. At higher speeds, your tires may not be able to push water out of the way fast enough, effectively causing your car to "surf" on the water.

To avoid hydroplaning:

  • Check your tire tread: Bald tires have no way to channel water away. Ensure your tires have adequate tread depth.
  • Slow down: Speed is the primary factor in hydroplaning. Reduce your speed significantly when water is pooling on the road.
  • Avoid heavy braking or sudden turns: If you feel your vehicle start to hydroplane, do not slam on the brakes or jerk the steering wheel. Take your foot off the gas, allow the vehicle to slow down naturally, and steer gently in the direction you want to go until you regain traction.

Visibility is Key

Rain severely impacts your ability to see and be seen by others. Heavy downpours can reduce visibility to near zero.

  • Turn on your headlights: Ontario law requires headlights to be on when visibility is poor, but it's a good habit to turn them on anytime it's raining, even during the day. This makes you much more visible to other drivers.
  • Maintain your wipers: Windshield wipers should be replaced at least once a year. If they are streaking or skipping, they need to be changed immediately.
  • Defog your windows: Use your vehicle's air conditioning and defroster to keep the inside of your windows clear of fog, which often builds up quickly during rain.

Always keep your gas tank at least half full. In the event of severe weather or flooding that causes massive traffic delays, you don't want to run out of gas while stranded.

Adjusting Your Driving Habits

As with snow or ice, wet roads require a gentler touch.

  • Increase following distance: Give yourself more space between your vehicle and the one in front. It takes longer to stop on a wet road.
  • Accelerate and brake smoothly: Sudden actions break traction. Apply the gas and brakes gradually.
  • Avoid standing water: Never drive through flooded roads or deep puddles. It's difficult to gauge the depth, and even a few inches of moving water can sweep a vehicle away. If you must drive through a puddle, reduce your speed to avoid splashing water into the engine bay or onto pedestrians.

By preparing your vehicle and adjusting your driving style, you can safely navigate wet roads with the Confidence and Ability of a Triple A driver.