Seems like the elements just won’t quit. The summer rains are already upon us after the end of a blustery winter that brought record snowfall across the country. This article is meant to provide driving and car care advice for drivers facing rainy conditions this summer.As with most automobile situations, it is best to be prepared before a problem occurs. The best way to bypass an incident on a rainy road is to make sure the vehicle is well maintained and up to the challenge of driving in the rain.Keep a close eye on your tire pressure. Seasonal temperature changes can drastically change the tire pressure; remember the scientific fact that gases expand when heated and contract when cooled. All four tires should be equally inflated to the proper levels. Even a single pound of pressure difference from tire to tire can have a serious effect on handling and stopping in atrocious conditions. Replace any tire that is showing wear indicators or that is balding near the edges.If handling is still a concern have the brakes, rear end, and suspension checked over by a professional. These systems work together to create a smooth and secure ride. Remember that if the car handles a tad rough on dry roads expect those issues to worsen under adverse weather conditions.A good set of windshield wiper blades is an uncomplicated way to ensure driving days in bad weather. High-end blades are excellent if money is no object, but new OEM blades are a major improvement over old blades. A chemical treatment like Rain-X is a great additional option to maintain safe visibility on the road regardless of weather conditions.Finally check that all of the blinkers, headlights and tail lights are operative. Bulbs are not expensive, so replace them in pairs for safe and easy driving. Scuffed lenses can be buffed out with a variety of products available from any auto parts store, and rubbing compound works well in a pinch to clear-up old lenses.With the automobile ready for the road, consider polishing driving habits once the rain starts pouring. For a start, try slowing down. That seems easy, but with the hustle and bustle of everyday life many drivers continue to speed even when braking distance, stopping distance, and driver communication are all compromised by rain.Also, learn to brake and steer in sequence instead of together. In other words brake first then steer. This tactic reduces body roll and lowers the chance of hydroplaning. Many drivers use this technique in the snow yet it is equally useful in the rain. Remember that poor driving skills are magnified by extreme weather conditions.Finally, have the courage to pull over and wait out the storm if conditions worsen. If possible seek an alternate route to the destination that has less traffic and/or a lower speed limit. There is no shame in being a few minutes late because of the weather, especially when one considers the consequences of erratic driving in the rain.