Driving in heavy rain can be dangerous. Use these tips to stay safe.

Singing in the rain? Great! Driving in the rain? Not so good. In heavy rain, roads become much less safe for drivers. It's important that you know how to handle such a situation so that your journey remains safe. Here are some essential tips for driving in heavy rain.

• If the weather is really bad, it's best not to drive at all. Although some journeys are essential, it is important to avoid unnecessary trips until the weather and the road conditions have improved.
• Slow down. Reducing your speed is the only way to keep your vehicle from hydroplaning. Remember that one of the most dangerous times to drive is soon after it begins to rain as the oils on the roadway make for slick conditions.
• Turn your headlights on. It's crucial that other motorists can see your vehicle through heavy rain and fog, even if it means turning your headlights on during the day. An easy rule is that if your windscreen wipers are on, your headlights should be on, too.
• Avoid using cruise control. The rain and slick road conditions can cause drivers to lose control.
• Take it easy through puddles. It can be deceiving to know if water lying on the road is a puddle or a pothole filled with water. Slow your speed and, if you can no longer see the road markings through a puddle, don't go through it.
• Leave plenty of room between yourself and the vehicle in front of you. Wet road conditions can increase your stopping distance to more than double. Leave enough room so that you can brake in advance.
• Just in case, stock an emergency supply kit. This kit should have everything from a first aid kit, blankets, non-perishable food, water, and a cell phone charger. If there is an accident or an emergency, you'll be thankful that you packed this kit to see you through it.

If you keep to these rules while on the road, you'll drastically lower your chances of being in an accident and you'll keep yourself and your passengers safe. It may be an inconvenience, but often it is a necessity.

For the auto insurance to protect you while you're cruising the open roads, visit Jack Stone Insurance Agency, serving Brentwood, Antioch, and surrounding metropolitan areas of California.