Imagine driving down the highway when a sudden snowstorm hits, or you're caught in the middle of heavy rain with zero visibility. It's every driver's worst nightmare, yet these weather conditions can occur at any time.

Staying calm and making the right choices behind the wheel is crucial to staying safe during a snowstorm or heavy rain. Here's what you need to know to drive safely in these challenging conditions.

Prepare Your Car for Harsh Weather

Before you even start the engine, there are a few basic steps you can take to ensure that your car is ready to handle the storm.

1. Check Your Tires

Your tires are your car's only point of contact with the road, so make sure they're in good condition. During winter months, switch to winter tires that are designed for better traction in snow and ice. In heavy rain, tires with deeper tread patterns can help channel water away from the tire's surface, preventing hydroplaning.

2. Replace Windshield Wipers

If your wipers are streaking or leaving lines on the windshield, it's time for new ones. Wipers are essential during both rain and snow to maintain visibility. In colder climates, also use windshield washer fluid that won't freeze.

3. Top Off Fluids

Ensure your antifreeze, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid are topped off. These can be easily overlooked but are essential when driving through severe weather.

Adjust Your Speed for Safety

When driving in snowstorms or heavy rain, slowing down is a must. It's tempting to drive at the same speed you would on a dry, clear day, but doing so could lead to a dangerous situation.

1. In a Snowstorm

Snow and ice can reduce tire traction, making it easier for your car to skid. It's essential to slow down, especially on bridges, overpasses, and intersections, which freeze first. Reduce your speed and allow for more stopping distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.

2. In Heavy Rain

In rain, the road can become slippery, and water can accumulate in puddles or even form small rivers. Reduce your speed to avoid hydroplaning, a situation where your tires lose traction and glide over the water's surface. Hydroplaning is more likely when you drive at higher speeds, so slower speeds give you more control.

Increase Following Distance

In any kind of inclement weather, your vehicle will take longer to stop than it would on dry pavement. By increasing your following distance, you'll have more time to react to any sudden changes in the road or traffic ahead.

1. Snow and Ice

On snowy or icy roads, you should increase your following distance to at least 6 seconds or more, depending on the severity of the weather. This gives you enough time to respond if the car ahead stops suddenly.

2. Rain

In heavy rain, the road may be slick, so increase your following distance to 4 seconds or more. This extra space allows you to brake gradually and safely if needed.

Use Your Lights Wisely

When visibility is poor, turning on your headlights is critical. However, there's a specific way to use them when driving in a storm.

1. In Snowstorms

Use your low beams in a snowstorm or blizzard. High beams will reflect off the snowflakes, reducing your visibility. Low beams provide better illumination in snowy conditions, allowing you to see the road more clearly.

2. In Heavy Rain

Always use your headlights in heavy rain, as this helps other drivers see you. However, don't use your high beams. They can reflect off the rain and create glare, which will make it harder for you to see.

Handling Skids and Hydroplaning

Despite all precautions, skidding or hydroplaning can still happen. Here's how to handle these situations:

1. If You Start Skidding on Snow or Ice

If your vehicle starts to skid on snow or ice, avoid slamming on the brakes. Instead, gently steer in the direction you want the front of the car to go. If your rear wheels are skidding, steer into the skid. This technique will help you regain control without overcorrecting.

2. If You Begin Hydroplaning

If you start hydroplaning, do not panic. Avoid hard braking or turning the steering wheel abruptly. Gently release the accelerator and steer in the direction you want to go. Once your tires regain traction, you can accelerate slowly again.

Stop and Wait if Conditions Get Worse

If the weather becomes so severe that visibility is reduced to almost nothing, it's best to pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Here's when it's smart to stop:

1. Snowstorms

If the snow is coming down so hard that you can't see more than a few feet in front of you, it's safer to stop. Find a well-lit parking lot or rest area, turn on your hazard lights, and wait for the storm to pass.

2. Heavy Rain

If the rain is so heavy that you can't see the road or the vehicles around you, it's time to pull over. Avoid stopping on the shoulder of a busy highway. Instead, look for a parking lot or a safe location off the road.

Stay Calm and Focused

Lastly, one of the most important things you can do when driving in challenging weather is to stay calm. Anxiety can cloud your judgment and cause you to make poor decisions. Keep a clear head, focus on the road, and avoid distractions. If conditions are too harsh, don't hesitate to pull over and wait it out.

Final Thoughts

Driving in snowstorms and heavy rain can be daunting, but with the right preparation and mindset, you can handle it safely. Remember to adjust your speed, increase your following distance, and use your lights correctly. If you start skidding or hydroplaning, stay calm and take the appropriate actions to regain control. Above all, always prioritize safety — if the conditions are too dangerous, stop and wait for the storm to pass. With these precautions, you can navigate even the worst weather with confidence.