In reality, very rarely do we drive in ideal conditions. Ideal conditions would include no snow or rain on the road, no potholes, the sun is not in your face, and cars are actually moving. What we do face on a regular basis is not so ideal conditions. This brings me to my next tip: Driving in the Rain.

Here are a few pointers that will help you next time you are on the road when you are tackling anything from a light drizzle to a downpour:

• Plan for your trip to take extra time – you should always take into account road conditions when planning your trip;
• Plan for alternate routes in case your normal routes are busy;
• Slow down – the oil on our roads and water aren’t the best combination, meaning it gets SLIPPERY - less speed = better traction;
• Leave extra space between you and the vehicle in front of you – this is something you should be doing no matter what the road conditions are like;
• Turn on your headlights – but not your full beams or fog lights - is it really necessary to blind the person in front of you;
• Don’t parallel drive with another vehicle – again this is something you should never be doing but especially during slippery conditions - if you ever spin out you want to ensure there is nothing next to you that you might hit or vice versa;
• Try to stay out of the big puddles - deeper water makes it that much more difficult to control your car;
• Be aware that trucks can spray up a lot of water – try not to drive next to a truck for too long - if you are passing one and they spray up water don’t get scared and brake;
• Avoid heavy braking – you should always have enough distance in front of you that you can start slowing down by lifting your foot off the accelerator or braking very slowly;
• Make sure you’re car is ready to drive through the rain – just as much as we prepare for winter driving we should be vigilant about driving through the rain - ensure your tires are properly inflated, check your wipers regularly, make sure all your lights are working (brake, turn signals), and you should always have an emergency kit in your car;

Next time you are driving in the rain think about these things and maybe you’re trip will go a little smoother