Rain turns roads slick and shiny. It makes the world hazy and soft. But for drivers, this weather brings real challenges. Your car can slide. Your windows can fog. Your brakes can take longer to work.
Learning how to drive safely in the rain is a skill every driver should practice. It builds confidence and keeps you secure. The best driving school in Dubai includes special lessons on handling wet roads, which is smart for any new driver.
See and be seen.
First, ensure you can see clearly. Turn on your headlights. This helps you see the road better and makes your car visible to others. Use your windshield wipers at a speed that clears the water away fast. If your windows fog up, turn on your defroster and the air conditioner. This clears the mist quickly.
Slow your roll.
The most important rule is simple: drive slower. Rain mixes with oil and dirt on the road, making it very slippery, especially at the start of a shower. Driving slower gives you more time to stop and more control if your car starts to slide. Ease off the gas pedal and increase your following distance from the car ahead.
Avoid the skid.
What if your car starts to slide? Don’t panic. Ease your foot off the accelerator. Steer gently in the direction you want the front of the car to go. Avoid slamming on the brakes, as this can make the skid worse. Smooth and calm movements help you regain control.
Beware of standing water.
Puddles are not for splashing. Driving fast through deep water can cause your car to lose traction and slide. It can also hide potholes. A large puddle can even stall your engine if water gets inside. It is best to steer around large puddles. If you cannot avoid one, slow down before you enter it.
Double your space.
On dry roads, you might follow a few seconds behind the car in front. When it rains, double that space. Wet brakes do not work as fast. Extra space gives you a much larger safety cushion to stop safely if the car ahead brakes suddenly.
Wait out the storm.
Sometimes, the rain falls too hard. The wipers cannot keep up, and you can barely see the tail lights of the car in front. When this happens, the safest move is to pull over. Find a safe place off the road, like a parking lot, and wait for the heaviest rain to pass. It is better to arrive late than to risk an accident.