How Do You Explain Rain to Drivers in Lubbock, Texas?

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So we have stuff falling from the sky. Now, what do we do?

It really shouldn't be such a big deal that there's some moisture out there, but we all know it is. I'm trying to figure out exactly how to explain this to someone who's never experienced it before because that's certainly the way people act.

I think the best way to do this is to break it down into two categories. First, we have the people who pretend nothing is happening, and next, we have the people who freak out.

Let's do this with bullet points.

For Those Who Pretend Things Are Normal

• Stopping distance is twice as much as on a dry road
• If there's a lot of water on the road, your car could hydroplane and possibly go out of control
• Sure, you're a great driver, but the people around you may be idiots

For Those Who Freak Out

• If you allow adequate distance between you and the other cars, you'll be okay.
• You will not drown if you avoid large puddles (and lakes)
• The people around you don't want to kill you, they're just a bit careless

For Everyone

The secret to this is like the secret to most things, it's just a combination of time and space. If you take a little extra time (just slow down a bit) and allow some extra distance between you and the other drivers, you should be okay.

If you're having a bit of trouble seeing out of your windshield, most auto parts stores will put the wipers on for you. Don't allow anyone to rush you, and at the same time don't put yourself in a situation where you're slowing all traffic (just move over and let them clear the way for you).

I hope this helps a bit. It rains a little more than three days a year here, so it's easy to forget. Oh, and one more time so the people in the back can hear: STOPPING DISTANCE WHEN IT'S RAINING IS TWICE AS MUCH AS ON A DRY ROAD.

If you have a new driver or would like to educate yourself more, here's a link to a defensive driving site.