Did you know the road can be its slickest during the first half-hour of a rain storm after an extended dry period?

That’s because all the oil and grime embedded in the asphalt accumulates in the water and rises to the surface.

It’s all about traction and that starts with your tires--your vehicle’s only safety accessory that actually touches the road.

"Tread design dramatically influences the way your vehicle performs in different environments,” said Jim Davis, spokesperson for The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. “For instance, increasing how much rubber touches the road can help determine the level of grip the tires provide for a vehicle.”

Experts offer the following suggestions for navigating slick roads and summer storms.

• Expect a slick road if it hasn’t rained in a while. The first few hours of a fresh rain can be the most dangerous.
• Keep more distance. A vehicle needs two to three times more stopping distance on wet roads.
• Turn on your headlights to improve visibility.
• Turn off your cruise control.
• Plan ahead. Be cautious and give yourself more time to get where you are going.
• Check your tires for tread wear before heading out on the road.
• Haven't rotated your tires lately? Rotation is a good practive that extends life and can uncover tire or brake issues.

Source: Ohio Department of Transportation