Driving in the rain requires additional care and attention. Wet weather brings a range of dangers and difficulties you might not face in dry and sunny conditions. For example, few people are aware that a driving manoeuvre used regularly on a sunny day could be considered dangerous by a police officer if the weather conditions limit visibility or impair road surfaces.

If you experience any legal difficulties as a result of wet or otherwise bad weather, legal professionals such as Gold Coast Traffic Lawyers at http://www.gctrafficlawyers.com.au/ can provide assistance and advice. In the meantime, here are some handy tips for driving in wet weather.

Allow more time to reach your destination

Leave earlier than you normally would to allow for slower traffic, more congestion and possible closed roads. An earlier start will also allow you to drive to the conditions and, if the rain gets heavy and severely limits visibility, you can afford to wait at the roadside until the weather eases.

Slow down and brake earlier

Slow down even if the traffic is relatively light and the roads clear. Wet roads can form a thin layer of grease and as a result become very slippery. This is particularly true in regions that have not had much recent rain. In addition, water patches on the road can cause your car to aquaplane – where the tyre floats in the water and loses grip with the road. This results in you losing complete control of steering, braking and acceleration. Cars take longer to stop on wet roads, so you should start breaking earlier than normal. This gives people behind you advanced warning that you are stopping and gives them more time to react.

Use headlights

If the rain is particularly heavy, or a heavy storm is brewing, it is always a good idea to turn on your headlights. This improves your ability to see line markings on the wet bitumen, and makes it easier for other drivers to see you coming. This is particularly useful if you drive a darker coloured car. Remember to turn your lights off when you reach your destination, or you might find yourself with a flat battery.

Demist your windows

One hazard for unsuspecting motorists in the rain is the tendency for the car’s windows to steam up. This occurs when the air inside the car gets hotter than the outside atmosphere. Even if your windows are clear when the rain starts, pop on your front and rear demisters to keep them that way.

Be alert

Finally, keep a sharper eye on everything around you than you would under dry conditions. Other drivers sometimes lose focus in wet conditions, or lose control on the wet and slippery surfaces. Similarly, pedestrians can be less predictable as they grapple with umbrellas and try to dodge puddles. Look out for anyone who might suddenly step onto the road in front of you.

Driving in the rain is very different from driving when the roads are dry, but that doesn’t mean it should be any less safe. Keep your concentration up and adjust your normal driving attitude to match the conditions. It will get you through your journey free of major problems.