Wet Weather Driving Tips

Wet Weather

Key Wet Weather Safety Principles

Nine practical habits for staying in control when traction, visibility and stopping distance are all working against you.

LOOK UP. STAY BACK® — The Foundation of Efficient Driving

Smooth driving starts with good observation.

✓Scan well ahead
✓Maintain generous following distance
✓Anticipate traffic flow

This reduces unnecessary braking and acceleration — the biggest contributors to wasted fuel.

Reduce Speed Before You Need To

Speed affects traction more than any other factor.

✓Slow down before corners, not during them
✓Avoid sudden steering, braking or acceleration
✓Drive to the conditions, not the speed limit

Smooth inputs = lower consumption.

Understand Aquaplaning

Aquaplaning occurs when tyres lose contact with the road surface.

To reduce the risk:

✓Maintain safe speeds
✓Avoid puddles and standing water
✓Keep tyres correctly inflated and with adequate tread

If aquaplaning occurs:

✓Ease off the accelerator
✓Keep the steering straight
✓Avoid braking until traction returns

Maximise Visibility

Seeing and being seen is critical.

✓Use headlights in rain, fog or low light
✓Ensure wipers and demisters are working effectively
✓Keep windows clear of fog by using air conditioning or ventilation
✓Avoid driving through heavy spray from trucks where visibility drops to zero

If you can’t see clearly, slow down or pull over safely.

Avoid Cruise Control in the Wet

Cruise control can delay your reaction time and increase the risk of aquaplaning.

Manual speed control gives you better feel and faster response.

Be Cautious on the First Rain After Dry Weather

Oil, dust and debris create a slick surface when rain first begins.

This is one of the highest risk moments for loss of traction.

Brake Earlier and More Gently

Wet roads reduce grip.

✓Begin braking earlier
✓Apply pressure smoothly
✓Allow extra time for vehicles behind you to react

ABS helps, but it cannot overcome physics.

Avoid Flooded Roads

Even shallow water can cause loss of control or vehicle damage.

✓Never drive through moving water
✓Avoid water deeper than the bottom of your doors
✓Turn around if you’re unsure

Most flood related fatalities occur in vehicles.

Prepare Your Vehicle

A well maintained vehicle is safer in the wet.

✓Check tyre tread and pressure
✓Check tyre tread and pressure
✓Keep headlights clean
✓Maintain brakes and suspension

Small maintenance issues become major risks in poor weather.