We’re used to plenty of rain here in Washington State. So, it can be easy to underestimate how dangerous wet roads can be for drivers. We wanted to take some time out and share some tips for staying safe while driving in rainy conditions.
1. Keep an eye on your windshield wipers. Wipers are inexpensive to replace and can make a big difference. There are also products you can use on your windshield to prevent water from streaking.
2. Keep an eye on your tires. Make sure your tires maintain good air pressure and have suitable tread. Worn tires and slick roads can be a bad mix!
3. Turn on your headlights. Rain reduces visibility, so turn on those headlights – even if it’s daylight. (Just avoid those high beams.)
4. Consider driving in the middle lanes. If it’s been raining hard or for some time, opt for the middle lanes. The water is more likely to pool onto the lanes next to the shoulder.
5. Create distance. Allow extra space between your vehicle and others on the road.
6. Avoid hard braking. Any sudden, sharp maneuver such as hard braking increases your chances of hydroplaning.
7. Reduce your speed. Driving a few miles under the speed limit will provide you with extra reaction times and reduce the chance of a collision.
8. Use extreme caution if driving through a puddle. If you are unfamiliar with the area, avoid it altogether. Many drivers have been stuck in puddles that were much deeper than they realized.
While these tips are geared for driving in Washington, we encourage you to do some research when driving out of state. Rains in some places can be torrential or bring flooding. It’s always a good idea to familiarize with the possibilities and seasons bad weather could come. Make sure to add a weather app or two to your phone and turn those notifications “on.”
Have you been involved in a collision due to inclement weather? Want to speak to a car accident attorney about it? Our team is ready and able to answer your questions, at no cost. Please reach out to our team today.
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