April showers bring May flowers, but they bring more than that. On the road, they can bring hazardous driving conditions. It’s therefore worth it to take a little extra time to brush up on safety tips for driving in the rain.

Slow down, Speed Racer. Wet road surfaces can be challenging to stop on, so ensure you’re not exceeding the speed limit in the rain. Ensure you’re traveling slowly enough to avoid puddles of standing water. Hydroplaning, or skidding on a water-covered roadway, can occur when a layer of water builds between the vehicle’s tires and the road surface, resulting in a dangerous loss of traction that prevents the vehicle from responding to the driver’s controls.

Learn how to handle a skid. If you do find yourself hydroplaning, do not panic. Be sure not to brake or accelerate suddenly. According to the web site Defensive Driving, if you’re in a front-wheel drive with or without ABS and traction control, or a rear-wheel drive with ABS and traction control, look for open space and steer toward it, staying lightly on the accelerator. If you’re in a rear-wheel drive without ABS and traction control, look for open space and plan to travel in that direction while easing off the accelerator and steering toward the open space.

Increase your following distance. This is important, particularly if you tend toward being an impatient tailgater. It’s critical to not follow the vehicle in front of you too closely so you can leave yourself plenty of time to slow down or stop as needed.

Watch out for rain after a dry spell. When the weather has been dry, engine oil and grease from vehicles can build up on roadways and highways, and when combined with rain, can make for slippery roadways. A few days of rain will clear the build-up, but it’s worth it to exercise extra caution when driving after a dry spell.

Ensure your wipers are in good shape. Winter can be hard on windshield wipers – ice and snow can break down and dry out the materials – so it’s worth it to replace your wipers in the spring to ensure that they’re in optimal working condition. Wet driving conditions can lead to mud and spring pollen build-up on your windshield, so also ensure your wiper fluid is topped up.

Be certain you’re properly insured. Ensure your auto policy is adequate and up-to-date so you don’t need to worry about financial repercussions from an accident. In Connecticut, Petruzelo Insurance offers personalized auto policies that fit your needs and protects you, your family and your vehicle in case of accident, loss or damage. Call us at 866-479-3327 or visit our web site for more information.