At times on Tuesday, heavy rain fell on the county, making driving perilous for those on the roads. Pearl River County residents who are unable to stay home on rainy days may want to consider several steps to stay safe while driving. When driving in the rain, it is always a good idea to drive with the headlights on. Mississippi law requires the use of headlights when windshield wipers are in continuous use as a result of rain, sleet or snow and using them can help improve the visibility of a vehicle.

Whether it is in the middle of the day or night, rain can easily impair a person’s sight while behind the wheel.

The use of headlights helps a driver see and be seen to improve safety.

It is also a good idea to check a car’s tires before driving in the rain.

The more tread a tire has, the more traction it will have on wet pavement.

To ensure the best grip, check the air pressure in the tire and the depth of the tread.

All tires made today have a raised area within the tread to denote the lowest possible tread height. Ensuring there is adequate tread and air pressure will help prevent a car from hydroplaning.

While it is always a good idea to avoid speeding, it is especially important to drive slower than the limit when it is raining. More than once I’ve been driving down the interstate in heavy rain and had a car speed past me, only to see them further down the road stuck in the median waiting for a tow truck. Thankfully they only got stuck in mud instead of running into a tree or another vehicle.

If you follow these and other safe driving practices, it will make driving in the rain safer for everyone.