In 2025, the Federal Highway Administration (FHA) reported that wet roads cause “thousands” of accidents each year in the United States. FHA statistics also show that rain alone causes up to 10 percent of all crashes in the United States. Rain-related hazards can be particularly pronounced in the Pacific Northwest. While Washington might not be the rainiest state in the nation in terms of total inches per year, wet roads are nonetheless quite common in this region.
According to the Seattle Municipal Government, prominent hazards include atmospheric rivers, flooded roads, and landslides. Often, these hazards only contribute to crashes that are mostly caused by human errors or negligence. Those who were involved in crashes on wet roads might want to contact an experienced auto accident attorney in Seattle. Herschensohn Law, PLLC has a track record of securing multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts for injured motorists in Washington, with a $2.7-million settlement recovered in 2024. Continue this conversation by contacting our law firm at (206) 222-9553.
How Can I Reduce My Risk of Accidents in Rainy Weather?
One of the most important safe driving tips on wet roads is simple: Slow down. Rain makes it impossible to drive safely at the same speeds a motorist would under ideal conditions. Drivers should also avoid standing water, as this could cause a stall. In almost all situations, it makes more sense to simply turn around when facing a flooded road. Another obvious safe driving tip is to leave more following room.
Summary of Safe Driving Tips on Wet Roads
Driving on wet roads significantly increases crash risks due to reduced traction, limited visibility, and longer stopping distances, making cautious driving essential. Federal Highway Administration data indicates that rain contributes to up to 10 percent of all crashes in the United States, with wet-road hazards frequently affecting drivers in Washington.
Key safety measures include reducing speeds below posted limits, avoiding standing or flooded water, and increasing following distances to account for hydroplaning and reduced braking performance. Proper vehicle maintenance, including functional headlights, effective windshield wipers, and appropriate tires, plays a critical role in managing wet-road conditions.
Herschensohn Law, PLLC regularly addresses auto accident matters in Seattle and throughout Washington, including collisions that occur during adverse weather conditions.
#1. Reduce Speeds
Posted speed limits only apply to ideal driving conditions. Those driving on wet roads must reduce their speeds below the posted limits. While there is no specific rule on what this speed should be, drivers should use their best judgment and prioritize safety. Those who drive at the same speeds as normal may receive speeding tickets, even if they remain below the posted limit.
Slower speeds are necessary on wet roads for various reasons. One of the greatest hazards in this scenario is hydroplaning. This occurs when tires become separated from the road by a layer of water, thereby losing traction. This loss of traction can cause vehicles to drift. The correct response to hydroplaning is to remain calm and keep the steering wheel straight. Many drivers overcorrect when hydroplaning, and this can easily cause crashes. Reduced speeds are also crucial on wet roads because drivers need more time and distance to reach a complete stop. This hazard becomes even more pronounced during heavy rain, when visibility may be extremely limited. If a driver cannot see hazards up ahead, they may not have enough time to avoid a collision when traveling too fast.
#2. Avoid Standing Water
Standing water may be common during atmospheric rivers and periods of heavy flooding. Drivers may be tempted to simply drive through standing water and hope for the best. However, this is an incredibly risky move that could have fatal consequences. Standing water can be deeper and more dangerous than it seems at first glance. New potholes and sinkholes may have developed, adding depth. In almost all cases, it makes more sense to simply avoid the standing water and choose a different route.
Drivers who venture into standing water often become stalled. Not only does this create a drowning risk, but it also creates a new hazard on the road that could endanger other motorists. Drivers approaching the standing water may not see the stationary vehicle until it is too late, causing a catastrophic, multi-vehicle accident. If there is absolutely no way around the standing water, consider driving extremely slowly in a cautious manner, ideally in a slow gear.
#3. Leave More Following Room
Even drivers traveling at slow speeds can be dangerous if they follow each other too closely. Drivers should leave extra following room on wet roads for various reasons. Increased stopping distances during rainy conditions mean that rear-end accidents are more likely. In addition, reduced visibility means that drivers need extra space to react to hazards up ahead. Consider doubling the following distance that would otherwise seem safe during ideal conditions.
#4. Make Sure Your Vehicle Is Well-Maintained
Headlights are particularly helpful on wet roads. Although drivers should never use their high beams to deal with torrential rain, it makes sense to use headlights even during the day if visibility is low. Because headlights are so important during these rainy conditions, a driver should make sure that both of their headlights are operational before getting behind the wheel. Windscreen wipers are also critical. Drivers who notice issues with their windscreen wipers should consider maintenance or repairs.
Tires are also important on wet roads. Worn tires can make driving on wet roads more dangerous. Certain tires may also offer greater levels of performance in the rain, and it may be necessary to swap out tires more suited for summer driving.
#5. Give the Road Your Full Attention
Distracted driving, sleep deprivation, and intoxication are always dangerous behind the wheel. However, these hazards are even more pronounced when driving on wet roads. Because of lower visibility, the threat of hydroplaning, and reduced tire performance, drivers must give wet roads their full attention.
Learn More About the Dangers of Wet Roads With Herschensohn Law, PLLC
Safe driving tips can make a real difference in improving road safety for everyone in Washington. However, these tips are useless to those who are already experiencing serious injuries. Motorists have a legal duty of care to slow down and exercise more caution when driving on wet roads. Many forget that posted speed limits only apply to ideal driving conditions, and speeding in wet conditions often leads to life-changing accidents. While a negligent driver might be quick to blame the weather, this excuse may not hold up in court.
To uncover the true cause of a crash in wet conditions, consider speaking with an experienced auto accident attorney in Seattle. These legal professionals may be able to examine the “bigger picture” and identify all the contributing factors of a crash, including human negligence and the weather. Continue this discussion by contacting Herschensohn Law, PLLC at (206) 222-9553.
Frequently Asked Questions About Driving on Wet Roads
The following are some of the most common FAQs about safe driving on wet roads in Washington State.
Why Are Wet Roads More Dangerous Than Dry Roads?
Wet roads reduce tire traction and increase stopping distances, which raises the likelihood of skidding and hydroplaning. Rain can also limit visibility, making it more difficult to identify hazards in time to react safely.
What Is Hydroplaning, And Why Does It Occur?
Hydroplaning happens when a layer of water separates tires from the road surface, causing a loss of control. This condition is more likely at higher speeds, with worn tires, or when driving through standing water.
Do Speed Limits Still Apply During Rainy Conditions?
Posted speed limits are designed for ideal driving conditions. During rain or flooding, drivers may need to travel below the posted limit to comply with their duty to operate a vehicle safely.
Why Should Drivers Avoid Standing Or Flooded Water?
Standing water can conceal potholes, sinkholes, or deep flooding that may stall a vehicle. Stalled vehicles can create additional roadway hazards and increase the risk of multi-vehicle collisions.
How Much Following Distance Is Appropriate On Wet Roads?
Drivers are generally encouraged to increase their following distance during rain, sometimes doubling the space used in dry conditions. Extra distance allows more time to react to sudden stops or reduced visibility.
Does Vehicle Maintenance Affect Safety In Rainy Weather?
Properly maintained headlights, windshield wipers, and tires improve visibility and traction during rain. Worn tires or malfunctioning equipment can significantly increase accident risks on wet roads.
Can Weather Alone Be Responsible For A Wet-Road Crash?
Weather can contribute to hazardous conditions, but many wet-road crashes also involve human error or negligence. Drivers are expected to adjust their behavior to account for rain and reduced road safety.
How Can Herschensohn Law, PLLC Assist After A Wet-Road Accident?
Attorneys at Herschensohn Law, PLLC could help clarify available legal options for individuals involved in wet-road collisions. The team works to ensure clients understand their rights and potential legal paths under Washington law.
