Some places in the U.S. are seeing wet, rainy weather this month. With all those rainy days in the extended forecast, it’s a good time to remind yourself of wet-weather driving safety tips to prevent motor vehicle accidents. According to AAA, wet pavement is a contributing factor in about 1.2 million traffic accidents each year.
Here are a few ways reputable motorist organizations recommend driving in wet weather:
- Reduce your speed. Wet roads are slippery. You may start hydroplaning, which occurs when the tires are lifted by even the thinnest layer of water on the pavement. Slowing down improves the tires’ contact with the road.
- Avoid sudden and hard braking. Doing so may cause a loss of traction. Also, wet pavement means you’ll need more time and distance to slow down, so braking softly and in advance will prevent you from rear-ending the car ahead of you.
- Increase following distance. Wet pavement increases your time to come to a stop and rain lowers visibility, so it’s important to put more space between you and the car in front of you.
- Turn on your headlights. Rainy weather lowers visibility, so make sure your headlights are on to illuminate the roadway.
- Stay alert. We all tend to go into “auto pilot” when we get behind the wheel. Most of us drive so often that it’s easy to let alertness fall by the wayside. Especially in poor weather, stay alert and focused (but also anytime you are driving, regardless of conditions).
Windshield wipers should be replaced every 6-12 months, or earlier if you notice streaking or poor performance. You should also keep the windshield washer fluid full, and the inside of the windshield clean as well as the outside.
Driving in the rain can be stressful, especially if you live somewhere that doesn’t get a lot of rain. With the tips above and a little patience, you can better ensure a safe and successful commute. You may also have the option of delaying unnecessary car trips until the rain stops.
If you have been injured in an auto accident caused by someone else, you deserve compensation and justice. An experienced attorney can help you pursue those things. Please search our directory to find a lawyer.