San Antonio’s weather can shift quickly—sudden afternoon showers or heavy downpours are common, turning roads slick and increasing accident risk. For new drivers, rainy day driving in Texas presents serious challenges, including reduced visibility, wet roads, and the ever-present danger of hydroplaning.According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), wet roads contribute to thousands of crashes each year in the state. Learning how to drive safely in rain is essential for teen drivers and adults alike. At Rhodes Driving Schools, our defensive driving courses in San Antonio include hands-on practice in wet conditions when possible, and we teach proven techniques to handle rain confidently. In this guide, we’ll cover why rain is so hazardous locally, key safety tips to prevent hydroplaning, and how professional training prepares you for Texas weather. (Wet roads and heavy rain in San Antonio—common sights during flash flood season.)Why Rainy Driving Is Riskier in San AntonioTexas weather patterns bring intense, short-lived storms, often leaving roads with standing water or oil buildup that makes them especially slippery. Common issues include:
- Hydroplaning: Tires lose contact with the road due to water buildup, causing loss of control.
- Reduced visibility from rain, fog, or windshield wipers.
- Increased stopping distances on wet pavement.
- Flash floods on low-lying roads or highways.
- Slow Down: Reduce speed by 5-10 mph below the posted limit—stopping distance doubles on wet roads.
- Check Tires: Ensure tread depth is at least 2/32 inch. Bald tires are more prone to hydroplaning.
- Use Proper Wipers & Lights: Turn on headlights (even in daytime rain) and keep wipers on. Use defroster to clear fog.
- Increase Following Distance: Triple your normal gap—allow 4-6 seconds between you and the car ahead.
- Smooth Inputs: Avoid sudden braking, accelerating, or steering. Gentle movements help maintain traction.
- Handle Hydroplaning: If you feel your tires lose grip:
- Ease off the gas (do not brake hard).
- Steer gently in the direction you want to go.
- Once traction returns, regain control.
- Avoid Standing Water: Turn around if you see deep puddles—many flash flood deaths occur when drivers try to cross flooded roads.
- Pull Over Safely: If conditions are too bad, find a safe spot (not on the shoulder of a highway) and wait it out.
- Flash flooding on low-lying areas like parts of I-10, Bandera Road, or near the San Antonio River.
- Oil slicks on roads after long dry spells, making first rain extra slippery.
- Poor drainage in some neighborhoods and parking lots.
- Our defensive driving courses emphasize wet-weather safety and hydroplaning prevention.
- When weather permits, we conduct real-time practice in light rain.
- Safe, dual-controlled vehicles and TDLR-certified instructors provide calm guidance.
- Flexible 7-day scheduling at 4 convenient locations.
- Focus on building lifelong skills for Texas roads.