Wet weather driving safety: What you need to know

It isn’t just snow and ice that can be dangerous — wet roads and active rain can make visibility poor and hydroplaning a threat.

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Obviously, high water always should be avoided, but wet roads also can be dangerous.

Out of 1.1 million police-reported crashes per year, rain was a factor in nearly half of them, according to a AAA Foundation research report.

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About 518,303 crashes are rain-related, with 206,474 reporting injuries. Of those crashes, 2,239 are fatal, according to the study.

Here are a few things to keep in mind on the roads when the rain is falling:

1. Make sure your windshield wiper blades are working properly

2. Use headlights and windshield wipers during the entire drive, even during the daylight hours

3. Driving at night can be tricky because it is harder to see ponding or high water on the roads

4. Leave plenty of space between you and cars around you in case anyone hydroplanes

5. In the fall and winter, watch for leaves on the road. They can create slick driving conditions

6. Try to avoid your cruise control so you can reduce the need to slam on your brakes

7. Give yourself extra time