Wet road conditions?

Driving in the rain – when roads are slick and visibility is reduced – can be stressful.

To help keep drivers and their passengers safe in wet, raining conditions, the North Carolina Department of Transportation has tips:

• Leave early to give yourself more time to reach your destination. That way you won’t rush.
• Reduce your speed and maintain a following distance of three seconds or more.
• Be ready for other vehicles stopping suddenly in front of you, as well as for changes in road conditions.
• Use your turn signal and begin to brake earlier than usual for upcoming turns.
• Turn on your headlights and the low beams.
• Use the defroster to increase your visibility.

Another danger to be prepared for is hydroplaning – “when your tires glide across the surface of the water on a road,” the NCDOT says. If you find your vehicle hydroplaning, take your foot off the gas pedal and apply the brakes in a “steady, slightly firm manner (don’t stomp on them).” Then, steer your vehicle in the direction of the skid.