5 Driving Safety Tips When It Rains in Lubbock

This one is simple. Speed limits can be observed when road conditions are fine, but in rainy weather driving the speed limit could cause you to hydroplane and lose control of your vehicle.

While the Texas Department of Transportation doesn't provide an exact number of how many miles slower you should drive when it's raining, a good estimate would be 15-20 miles slower than the posted speed limit.

If you need to drive in the rain, be prepared. Know where your destination is, and the safest way to get there. Avoiding roads where there may be high traffic volume minimizes the chances of someone else's mistake affecting you.

If you're new to Lubbock and need to rely on GPS to get around, type in your destination before you start driving. This ensures your complete focus is where it should be: on the road.

Texting and driving is something you shouldn't do period, even when road conditions are clear. Though Texas currently doesn't outlaw texting and driving at the state-level, using a cell phone while driving could still earn you a ticket for distracted driving.

The Texas Department of Transportation has a full rundown of distracted driving laws in Texas.

Hydroplaning is one of the scariest things that can happen while driving in the rain. Luckily, it's also avoidable. Check your tires before driving in the rain to make sure they're properly inflated, and be aware of the tread condition of your tires. If they're worn down, consider replacing them. And of course, drive well under the posted speed limit.

You can see a full list of ways to avoid hydroplaning and how to correct your vehicle if you do skid at weather.com.

Defensive driving is a solid way to avoid accidents. When it's raining, go that extra mile (no pun intended): Always use your turn signals; make sure you provide other drivers plenty of space to merge; and don't tailgate. Communicate as much as possible with other drivers as often as you can while on the road.