Driving the rain and knowing how to prevent hydroplaning and how to react if you do skid, can help you stay safe on the roads this season.

 To navigate wet roads:

• Slow down, by at least 5 miles an hour.
• Give the vehicle in front of you twice as much room as you usually do.
• If it’s raining heavily, pull over to a safe spot and wait until it slows.
• Remember that roads are most slippery during the first 10 to 15 minutes of a storm, especially if it follows a dry spell. In this case, the rain will mix with oil, dirt and other material that has built up on the road.

To regain traction if you hydroplane:

• Steer in the direction of the skid.
• Ease off the gas.
• Follow these braking guidelines:
o For antilock brakes: Apply the brakes firmly; don’t pump them.
o For an automatic transmission: Lightly apply the brakes.
o For a manual transmission: Push in the clutch and let your car slow down on its own.