Spring in Houston brings more than just blooming flowers and warmer air. Around this time, the skies tend to darken without warning, storms roll through quickly, and roads get extra slippery. These changes can leave many drivers feeling nervous behind the wheel. From what we have seen, Houston auto insurance companies notice an increase in claims during this rainy season. That does not mean you need to worry every time the clouds roll in, but getting ahead of the weather can make a big difference. Here are some simple steps that can help you feel more confident and stay safer when spring showers arrive.

Check Your Car Before the Rain Starts

Before you even turn the key, it is smart to take a few moments to look over your vehicle. Small fixes now can make a big impact once the rain begins. Here's a short checklist that you can use:

• Replace worn windshield wipers that leave streaks or miss spots

• Look at your tires and check for fading tread or uneven surfaces

• Check headlights, brake lights, and turn signals to make sure other drivers can see you

It is easy to miss these details when everything seems fine, but once the roads are soaked, you want every piece of your car working like it should. Better visibility and good tire grip are key to staying in control.

Watch How You Drive During Spring Showers

Rainy roads require us to make a few small changes in how we drive. Even if you feel experienced, wet pavement reacts differently under your tires. You do not have to overthink it, just take things slower and stay alert.

• Ease off the gas and do not rush through puddles, even if they look harmless

• Leave extra space between you and the car in front of you, since brakes take longer to work on slick roads

• Skip cruise control during rain, since it makes it harder to react quickly when traction drops

It is not just new drivers who slide or lose control in a sudden downpour. Taking your time and avoiding sharp moves keeps everyone safer.

Stay Alert in Flood-Prone Areas

Houston drivers know how quickly parts of the city can flood. Just a brief downpour can leave underpasses and low areas full of water. It helps to know which routes near your usual spots tend to fill up first.

• Make note of which roads by your work or home flood most often

• Avoid trying to drive through water, even if it does not look deep

• Choose a few backup routes now so you are not caught figuring it out during a storm

The weather can move fast, and sometimes you do not have much warning. Having a plan makes a big difference if water starts rising.

Understand What Your Insurance Covers

Spring storms do not just cause traffic delays. They can bring water damage, fallen limbs, or even light hail. That is why it is a good idea to know what kind of protection you already have with your auto insurance. Through Navigant Insurance, personal auto policies can include liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage that help pay for repairs or losses after an accident, theft, or storm-related damage.

• Not every policy covers flood damage or storm-related losses

• Talk to Houston auto insurance companies to go over your current plan

• Make changes ahead of time, so you are not trying to adjust coverage right after a storm hits

Most people do not think about their policy until they really need it. But a quick check now can help you avoid headaches later.

Rain-Ready Extras to Keep in Your Vehicle

If you have ever had to deal with soaked shoes or a foggy windshield during a Houston storm, you know how helpful a few basics can be. You do not need a lot of gear, just a few smart items tucked in your car.

• Keep a towel, flashlight, and small umbrella in your trunk

• Use a waterproof sleeve or pouch to protect your insurance papers and registration

• A soft cloth or some wipes can help you clear fog from windows fast

These little things make a big difference during surprise showers or delays. They are easy to store, and they come in handy more often than you might expect.

Stay Ready, Stay Safer in the Rain

When spring arrives in Houston, storms can come suddenly and make driving stressful. The good news is that a little preparation goes a long way. Making sure your wipers, tires, and insurance are where they should be keeps your car ready for whatever the sky decides to do. Most of these steps take only a short amount of time but lead to more peace of mind when you are on the road.

We have been through many wet springs right here in the city, so we understand what the weather brings. Taking care of a few basics now can help you drive with more confidence during the rainy months ahead.

About Ricky Wong

Ricky Wong has over 20 years of experience helping Houston drivers prepare for changing weather, especially around times with high rainfall. He has been part of many conversations about staying aware, feeling ready, and knowing what to expect from your coverage.

At Navigant Insurance, Ricky works closely with clients to review policies and help them plan ahead. He knows the streets of Houston, TX, and the kinds of weather people have experienced on the way to work, school, or back home again. He and the rest of our team focus on giving honest suggestions that work in real life, not just on paper. Our personal auto insurance coverage can be customized for different types of vehicles, including cars, trucks, SUVs, and motorcycles, and we can add options such as uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, roadside assistance, and rental car reimbursement when they fit how you drive.

Wondering if your current auto policy covers what you need for spring in Houston? At Navigant Insurance, we help local drivers stay protected when the rainy season arrives. As one of the trusted Houston auto insurance companies, we keep things clear and helpful through every season. Reach out today so we can review your coverage together and make sure your plan fits what you need right now.