"Many situations involving reduced visibility are worsened by poor traction," says auto mechanic S. Wright.,

The St Andrew-based mechanic with over 30 years experience, says this situation occurs, rain or shine.

"This can be caused by rain, loose sand and gravel on a dry road," says Wright.

"Rain-slick roads affect more drivers than any other reduced traction condition," he continued.

He explained that as raindrops fall, they mix with dust and oil drippings on the road to make an especially slippery surface. Not until this mixture is washed away, is traction greatly reduced.

heavy rain

"Whenever it rains, the road will be drier where the motor car ahead of you has left tracks. It is driving in those drier tracks that gives you a better traction," he said.

Kanute Hare, director at the Road Safety Unit of the Ministry of Transport, said when it rains heavily, a condition called hydroplaning can take place. This causes front tyres to lose their grip.

"When this happens, almost all steering and braking control is lost ... This is evident in speeding," says Hare.