Although seemingly harmless by itself, rain can create some risky driving conditions, from poor visibility to hydroplaning. No one likes to drive in the rain, but for Floridians rain is inevitable. Unfortunately, accidents occur more frequently during wet weather. To help prevent accidents, drivers should practice safe driving techniques. Here are several tips for staying safe while driving in the rain.
Turn On the Lights
If the windshield wipers are on, the lights should be, too. Although many vehicles now come with automatic lights, there are some older models that still have manual controls. It is important to see a longer distance in the rain because it takes longer to stop when the roads are wet. Turning on lights allows people in front and behind more time to make their decisions. So, when it starts to rain, turn on the lights.
Decrease Speed
Speed is one of the biggest factors in many accidents. When it is raining, it is important to decrease speed for several reasons. When the roads are wet, cars take longer to slow down and change direction. The slower that a person is going, the more time they will have to make decisions while driving. A slower car is a safer car when it comes to driving in the rain.
Increase Distance Between Cars
Unfortunately, tires and brakes do not perform as effectively on wet roads. Increasing the distance between cars provides a nice buffer in case a quick stop must happen. Even in dry weather, it’s important to maintain a safe distance between cars and not tailgate.
Contact Laporte, Mulligan & Werner-Watkins After a Car Accident
Driving in the rain can be dangerous. While these steps can help minimize the chance of a car crash, accidents can still happen. After a car accident, do not hesitate to contact Laporte, Mulligan & Werner-Watkins. Simply call or reach out online to receive necessary legal representation.