It’s Time For Upstate New Yorkers To Learn To Drive In The Rain

I grew up in one of America's wettest states, so I've been comfortable driving in the rain for most of my life. Florida driving necessitates being able to stay calm under pressure, especially during freak rainstorms.

Unfortunately, it seems a lot of New York drivers didn't learn to keep calm...

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Heavy Rain in the Capital Region

Late July has been... wet. We've had rain almost every day, and on July 29th, Central Avenue and Everett Road in Albany completely flooded. Police had to block the roads off, and for good reason, driving in flooded conditions is both dangerous to your car and others on the road.

That being said, it's not always catastrophic like that...

How to Drive in the Rain

Okay, so here's your guide from a native Floridan on how to drive in the rain, because I think Upstate New Yorkers need a crash course. I've seen so many drivers go wildly under the speed limit to avoid crashing, which is the opposite of what you should be doing.

A POV of a rainy windshield in a car

Rain is not snow. Sure, the roads are slippery, but not as much as it would be in the middle of winter. Drive with a car's distance between you and the driver in front, and ease into stops to avoid hydroplaning.

If you need to slow down, use your hazards. When rain gets rough, visibility is low, and driving under the speed limit without any indication is a great way to get slammed into. If you do feel yourself sliding, make sure to continue turning and looking in the direction you aim to go, but avoid putting more pressure on the brakes.