With the cooler months comes much-needed rain. Though the rain and snow are music to our ears when we reflect on the droughts experienced in the western states, such as California, the rainy weather also brings wet pavement, which according to AAA, contributes to over 1 million crashes each year.

Here are some tips to follow if you're caught driving during a rain storm.

Safety Begins Before You Hit the Road

Safety begins before you hit the road. Be sure to replace any old windshield wiper inserts that leave streaks on your windshield or that don't clear your view with a single swipe.

Check all headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals to ensure that they're functioning properly so other drivers will see you in a downpour. Always turn on your headlights when you drive, even during the day and in good weather.

Don't forget your tires; you must have proper tread depth and inflation in order to maintain the best traction on wet roadways. Check your tires' pressure monthly, and this includes the spare in the trunk – and don't forget to check the pressure when the tires are cold.

Here are some more tips:

• Never use cruise control in wet conditions, it only increases your chances of losing control.
• When driving in the rain, don't drive distracted, it's dangerous.
• Slow down so you can reduce the chances of hydroplaning.
• Leave a greater following distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.
• Slow down at traffic intersections early.
• If you skid, steer in the direction that you want to go.
• Avoid slamming on the brakes in wet weather, it makes it harder to control the vehicle.

Overall, drivers must be more cautious when driving in rainy weather because when they don't, they increase their chances of causing an accident, injuries, or death.

If you were injured in an accident during bad weather, contact a personal injury attorney to file a claim for compensation.