Driving in Rain, Fog and Tough Conditions: Safety Tips

Updated October 2026

Bad weather changes how your car behaves and how well you can see. Many crashes happen when drivers keep driving as if conditions were normal. Here is how to adjust your driving for rain, fog and other tough conditions.

Driving in the rain

• Slow down. Wet roads reduce grip and increase stopping distances. The first rain after a dry spell is especially slippery, because oil and dust rise to the surface.
• Double your gap. Leave at least four to six seconds to the vehicle in front.
• Turn on your headlights so others can see you.
• Brake, steer and accelerate gently. Sudden inputs can cause skids.
• Keep your windows clear with the demister and air conditioning.

Avoid aquaplaning

Aquaplaning happens when a layer of water builds up between your tyres and the road, so you lose steering and braking. Reduce speed in heavy rain and avoid pooled water. If it happens, ease off the accelerator, hold the steering straight and do not brake hard until the tyres regain grip. Good tyre tread depth helps prevent it.

Never drive through floodwater

It only takes a small amount of moving water to float a car, and roads can be damaged under the surface. If a road is flooded, turn around and find another route.

Driving in fog

• Use low beam headlights. High beam reflects off fog and makes it harder to see.
• Use fog lights only in fog or other poor visibility, and switch them off when visibility improves.
• Slow down so you can stop within the distance you can see.

Strong wind

Hold the steering wheel firmly, especially on bridges, open roads and when passing trucks. Watch for debris and fallen branches.

Sun glare

Low sun in the morning and late afternoon can be blinding. Use your sun visor and good sunglasses, keep the windscreen clean, and slow down when visibility drops.

Gravel, dust and slippery surfaces

Unsealed roads, loose gravel and smoke or dust reduce grip and visibility. Drive more slowly, avoid sudden movements and increase your following distance.

Prepare your car

Check tyre tread and pressures, wiper blades, washer fluid and lights regularly. These small checks make a big difference in poor conditions.