When driving in rain, what should you do to maintain control of your vehicle?

Maintaining control of your vehicle while driving in rain requires careful adjustments due to reduced traction and visibility. Reducing speed helps you to better manage your vehicle's handling on slippery surfaces, minimizing the risk of hydroplaning, where the vehicle's tires lose contact with the road and float on a layer of water. This slower speed gives you more time to react to any sudden changes, such as obstacles or emergency stops.

Increasing your following distance is equally important, as it provides a greater buffer zone to react to the vehicle in front of you. This is critical since stopping distances can be significantly longer on wet roads due to decreased friction. By following these practices, you ensure more control over the car's movements and improve safety for yourself and others on the road.

The other choices pose risks that could compromise safety while driving in rain. For instance, driving at increased speeds can lead to loss of control and longer stopping distances. Not using windshield wipers impairs visibility, which is essential in rainy conditions. Finally, using high beams can create glare off the rain, further reducing visibility rather than improving it.