When rain falls, extra caution is needed to prevent a car journey from becoming a life-threatening event

Water on asphalt creates a slippery film that separates tyres from the road surface. This phenomenon, known as hydroplaning, can cause potentially dangerous situations on the road.

Roads are most dangerous when rain falls after a long dry spell. Engine oil, grease and other slicking agents build up on the road surface unless washed away regularly. A sudden rain after a drought activates these agents, making roads especially slick for at least 30 minutes, and sometimes for hours.

Rain can also pose other driving dangers, such as obscuring your visibility and making it harder for pedestrians and other drivers to see you.

Being Prepared

Rain safety begins even before you take to the road. Replacing worn tyres and keeping the new tyres properly inflated helps maximise your ability to stay on the road. Replacing wiper blades according to the manufacturer's handbook is also advisible.

Make sure your defrosting and air-conditioning units are working properly so that you can de-fog the windows in stormy conditions.

Once the rain falls, you need to keep several things in mind. Five key points are:

1. Slow down
This is the most important thing you can do to increase safety during rain. Travelling at reduced speeds helps you see the road better and allows you more time to navigate out of slides. Many experts recommend slowing your speed by a third when travelling on wet roads. Use extra caution when going round corners.

2. Turn on your lights
Headlights illuminate the darkened conditions around you and help other drivers to see you coming. Do not use your high beams; they can reflect off droplets and make it even more difficult for you to see.

3. Apply the brakes carefully
Brake well ahead of your stop and with reduced force when roads are slick. Braking suddenly and locking your wheels can quickly put your car in a skid, although this is less likely in cars with anti-lock brakes. Braking gradually allows drivers behind you to notice your brake lights well ahead of your stop. This gives them more time to slow their own cars.

If a skid occurs, your reaction may vary depending on the type of car you drive. Do not brake at all if your car does not have anti-lock brakes. Instead, lift your foot from the accelerator and let the car slow itself until you can feel the road. Then, gently apply the brakes in a pumping motion. In contrast, drivers of cars with anti-lock brakes should brake hard and steer into a skid.

4. Avoid puddles
Roads are usually crowned, so they are highest in the middle. When rain falls, it tends to puddle in the slopes on either side of the pavement. Try to drive as near to the middle of the road as is safe to avoid collected water. Deep puddles can cause water to splash into the engine compartment and damage electrical systems.

If you do drive through a puddle, tap your brakes lightly after your wheels emerge from the water. This helps keep moisture off your brakes.

5. Steer clear of big vehicles
Trucks, buses and other large vehicles have big wheels that spray water everywhere, including on to your windscreen. Try to avoid these where possible.