Driving Tips > Safety Columns
Braking in the rain
Your car’s brakes are an absolutely essential safety feature. Knowing how to slow or stop in all conditions can save your life.
Slow down and increase distance
When it begins to rain, slow down and leave a larger following distance than the usual four seconds between your vehicle and the one ahead.
Stay in the tracks
If possible, drive in the tracks of the vehicles ahead of you to prevent hydroplaning. Hydroplaning happens when a film of water comes between your tires and the road – eliminating traction you need for braking or turning. Water on the brake drums/rotors can seriously impair braking efficiency.
Be gentle on
your brakes
In rain, brake more gently. If your vehicle doesn’t have anti-lock brakes and the tires begin to skid, ease up on the brakes then re-apply.
Keep tires inflated
In all conditions you’ll want to keep your tires properly inflated to ensure good braking, and check your tread.
Travelling tips
If you are driving on a road with long downhill slopes, try to spare your brakes by downshifting.
When pulling a trailer, remember that you will need to brake gradually and avoid sudden stops. Give yourself more braking distance.
For more information, watch
The 60-Second Driver on CTV, or visit the following sections on this website:
- Braking on Wet Roads in Driving Tips
- Hydroplaning in Driving Tips
- You can access the 60-Second video on Braking on Wet Roads directly
