Five Tips For Avoiding Car Accidents During Wet Weather

Over the past few weeks the west coast has been pounded by winter storms. These storms start in the Pacific, enter California, and if the system is large enough, make it to Arizona. It is proven that motor vehicle accidents increase during inclement weather. Below are five safe driving tips to help drivers avoid accidents during the wet, winter, weather.

1. Reduce Your Speed: Since accidents are increased during wet weather, and other drivers are more likely to lose control of their vehicles, it makes sense to reduce your overall speed. This will allow for more reaction time in the event of a dangerous condition.
2. Maintain Safe Stopping Distances: Tires do not have the same friction with wet roadways as they do when conditions are dry. As a result, it takes much longer for a vehicle to stop on a wet surface. During wet weather, make sure to increase the distance between your car and surrounding vehicles. A good rule of thumb is to double the distance between your vehicle and others when conditions are wet.
3. Activate Your Headlights: Inclement weather reduces visibility due to rainfall, reduced lighting conditions, windshield wipers and surface rain splatter. Increase your visibility during stormy or wet weather by activating your headlights.
4. Pull Over If Conditions Require: Pull off the road if rainfall is excessive or weather conditions are especially dangerous. However, make sure your vehicle is in a safe position where it will not be struck by other vehicles whose drivers may lose control. If you are unable to find a safe position, still pull off the road, but activate your hazard lights as well.
5. Equip Your Vehicle for the Wet Weather: It is important that you and your vehicle are prepared for the wet weather. Make sure that your vehicle’s braking and windshield wiper systems are working. Also consider replacing windshield wiper blades that may have dried out or cracked in the hot and dry summer months. Finally, consider replacing your tires with tires that are designed to handle water and wet conditions.

The above steps should help you avoid car accidents during wet or stormy weather. However, you may still be involved in a winter storm car accident due to the fault of another. If you are injured as the result of a car accident that was not your fault, contact the Piccuta Law Group today. One of our attorneys will provide a free case evaluation at no charge.