AAA Warns Michigan Drivers: Spring Showers Create Dangerous Driving Conditions

Experts share wet road driving tips and insurance reminders

DEARBORN, Mich., (March 31, 2026) — As spring showers move back into the forecast, AAA reminds drivers that wet roads can become dangerous fast. Rain reduces traction and limits visibility, fueling crashes, breakdowns, and costly mistakes when drivers underestimate changing road conditions.

“Wet pavement can turn roads into a slip and slide in seconds,” said Adrienne Woodland, spokeswoman for AAA-The Auto Club Group. “Make sure your vehicle is ready for changing weather, and when the rain starts falling, adjust immediately. Slow down, give yourself space, and stay alert because conditions can turn bad fast.”

Vehicle Maintenance Tips for Wet Weather

• Rotate tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles to prevent uneven wear and reduce hydroplaning risk.
• Replace windshield wipers every 6 to 12 months or sooner if they streak, skip, or reduce visibility.
• Check brake wear at least once a year and immediately if you hear squealing, feel vibration, or notice longer stopping distances.

AAA Wet Weather Driving Tips

• Turn headlights on to improve visibility
• Slow down and increase following distance
• Avoid cruise control on wet roads
• Steer clear of puddles and standing water
• Never drive through flooded roadways

When Visibility Drops

• Pull off the road safely if you can’t see
• Exit the interstate rather than stopping on shoulders
• Do not drive with hazard lights activated

If Your Vehicle Stalls or Flooding Occurs

• Do not restart the vehicle
• Leave the vehicle if rising water is present
• Move to higher ground immediately

Insurance Coverage Reminders

AAA reminds drivers not to drive through standing water or on flooded roads. Even shallow water can hide washed‑out pavement, stall vehicles, or deliver permanent engine and electrical damage. 

“Flooded vehicles often result in thousands of dollars in repairs and are not covered by a standard auto insurance policy,” Woodland said. “Damage from flooding requires comprehensive coverage, which is additional coverage drivers must carry on their auto insurance policy before a storm hits.”

How AAA Helps During Weather‑Related Breakdowns

AAA reminds drivers that severe weather often leads to disabled vehicles and hidden road hazards. When storms strike, AAA can assist by: 

• Dispatching roadside assistance service
• Transporting disabled vehicles to safe locations or repair facilities
• Connecting drivers to AAA Approved Auto Repair shops
• Helping AAA members who are stranded get off dangerous roadways

Drivers in flood‑prone areas are encouraged to plan ahead by parking on higher ground or inside garages before storms arrive and reviewing their insurance coverage before severe weather strikes.

Bottom Line

Spring storms can escalate quickly, but crashes, breakdowns, and expensive flood damage do not have to happen. AAA urges Michigan drivers to respect road conditions, avoid standing water, understand their insurance coverage, and call for help rather than taking risks when the weather turns dangerous.

About AAA – The Auto Club Group

The Auto Club Group (ACG), named a 2026 Forbes Most Trusted Company in America, is the second-largest AAA club in North America, with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, financial services, travel offerings and more. ACG is part of the national AAA federation, which serves more than 66 million members across the United States and Canada. AAA’s mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, download the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on social media.