MICHIGAN — As spring showers approach, AAA-The Auto Club Group reminded drivers in a press release on Tuesday that wet roads can become dangerous fast.

AAA stated that rain reduces traction and limits visibility, fueling crashes, breakdowns, and mistakes when drivers underestimate changing road conditions.

“Wet pavement can turn roads into a slip and slide in seconds,” Adrienne Woodland, spokeswoman for AAA, said in the release. “Make sure your vehicle is ready for changing weather, and when the rain starts falling, adjust immediately. Slow down, give yourself space, and stay alert because conditions can turn bad fast.”

AAA offered vehicle maintenance tips for wet weather below:

– Rotate tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles to prevent uneven wear and reduce hydroplaning risk.

– Replace windshield wipers every six to 12 months or sooner if they streak, skip, or reduce visibility.

– Check brake wear at least once a year and immediately if you hear squealing, feel vibration, or notice longer stopping distances.

Other AAA wet weather driving tips include the following:

– Turn headlights on to improve visibility

– Slow down and increase following distance

– Avoid cruise control on wet roads

– Steer clear of puddles and standing water

– Never drive through flooded roadways

When visibility drops, AAA suggested drives do the following:

– Pull off the road safely if you can’t see

– Exit the interstate rather than stopping on shoulders

– Do not drive with hazard lights activated

If your vehicle stalls or flooding occurs, AAA recommended the following:

– Do not restart the vehicle

– Leave the vehicle if rising water is present

– Move to higher ground immediately

Insurance coverage reminders

AAA reminded drivers not to drive through standing water or on flooded roads. Even shallow water can hide washed‒out pavement, stall vehicles, or cause permanent engine and electrical damage.

“Flooded vehicles often result in thousands of dollars in repairs and are not covered by a standard auto insurance policy,” Woodland said in the release. “Damage from flooding requires comprehensive coverage, which is additional coverage drivers must carry on their auto insurance policy before a storm hits.”