What should you do when driving in heavy rain?

When driving in heavy rain, increasing your following distance is crucial for maintaining safety on the road. Rain can significantly reduce visibility and traction, which can make it more difficult to stop quickly if necessary. By allowing a greater distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you, you give yourself more time to react to sudden changes, such as if the vehicle ahead brakes abruptly. This extra space can help prevent accidents, as wet roads can lead to longer stopping distances.

In contrast, the speed limit should be treated as a maximum speed under ideal conditions, and heavy rain often warrants driving at a slower and safer speed. Using cruise control is not advisable because it can lead to loss of control on slippery surfaces. High beams are ineffective in rain as they can reflect off the droplets, causing glare and further reducing visibility. Therefore, increasing your following distance is the most appropriate and safe action to take under such conditions.