You're halfway home when the sky darkens, rain starts hammering the windshield, and your wipers can barely keep up.

Your hands tighten on the wheel, and suddenly every car around you feels like a moving hazard. Bad weather can turn an ordinary drive into a stressful challenge, but with the right habits, you can stay calm and in control.

<h3>Slow Down and Stay Smooth</h3>

The first rule of driving in any bad weather is simple: slow down. Wet or icy roads make it harder for your tires to grip, meaning you'll need more distance to stop. Avoid sudden steering, braking, or accelerating — smooth, gentle movements keep your tires from slipping and your car more stable.

<h3>Keep a Safe Following Distance</h3>

In clear weather, the "three-second rule" is a good guide for following distance. In rain, fog, or snow, double that. Give yourself as much room as possible so you can react safely if the car ahead suddenly slows or skids. This extra space is your safety cushion.

<h3>Use Your Lights the Right Way</h3>

Headlights aren't just for seeing — they help others see you. Turn them on any time visibility drops, whether it's raining, foggy, or snowing. In heavy fog, avoid using high beams since they can reflect off the mist and make it harder to see. If your car has fog lights, this is the time to use them.

<h3>Watch for Hydroplaning</h3>

Hydroplaning happens when water builds up between your tires and the road, causing you to lose control. If you feel the steering go light and the car starts to slide, don't panic. Ease off the gas, keep the wheel straight, and let the car slow down naturally until the tires grip again. Overcorrecting can make the skid worse.

<h3>Be Prepared for Wind</h3>

Strong winds can push your car, especially if you're driving a high-profile vehicle like an SUV or van. Keep both hands on the wheel and be ready for sudden gusts when passing trucks or crossing open areas. Staying centered in your lane and reducing speed makes it easier to maintain control.

<h3>Clear Your Windows and Mirrors</h3>

Bad weather often means fogged-up glass. Use your defroster and air conditioning together to keep windows clear. Check that your windshield wipers are in good shape before the season changes, and replace them if they streak or squeak. Good visibility is your best friend in any storm.

<h3>Know When to Pull Over</h3>

Sometimes the safest move is to stop driving. If rain is so heavy you can't see the car ahead, or if ice makes the road feel like a skating rink, find a safe place to pull over — a rest stop, parking lot, or wide shoulder away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights and wait until conditions improve.

<h3>Prepare Before the Trip</h3>

Weather-safe driving starts before you even leave home. Check forecasts, plan extra travel time, and pack essentials like an ice scraper, flashlight, and small blanket in case of winter breakdowns. A little preparation can turn an emergency into a minor delay.

Driving in adverse weather doesn't have to feel like a white-knuckle experience. By slowing down, giving yourself space, and knowing when to stop, you make the road safer not just for yourself but for everyone around you.

Next time dark clouds roll in, try thinking of it as a chance to practice your skills — and prove to yourself you can handle whatever the sky throws at you.