The rainy season is upon us and the chance of being involved in an auto accident has greatly increased.
The following are some important tips to keep you safe when driving in the rain:
- Safety begins before you leave your home. Make sure your windshield wipers are in good condition and replace them if you cannot see clearly through your windshield.
- Check your tires to be sure they have good tread. Well-maintained tires with correct pressure are vital to ensure you maintain traction on a wet road.
- Keep your eyes on the road, both hands on the steering wheel and stay alert when driving in the rain.
- Use your headlights: other drivers will be able to see you more clearly when your lights are on.
- Be aware of your surroundings and pull over to a safe location, such as a parking lot, if the weather is too severe for you to see clearly.
- It is best to drive below the speed limit and keep extra distance from the car in front of you since it takes longer to stop in the rain. Maintaining a safe distance of at least 5 car lengths between you and the car in front of you will provide a safe margin of error should the car in front of you make a sudden stop.
- If you find yourself hydroplaning, stay calm and don’t make any sudden steering or braking moves. Let up on the gas and steer straight ahead or in the direction you were originally going.
- Stay away from flooded areas; attempting to drive through standing water could damage your brakes, engine and transmission or, even worse, could cause your vehicle to stall.
Unfortunately, even if you take precautions and drive safely in the rain, accidents can happen to the best drivers. If you are involved in an auto accident and are injured from someone else’s negligence, call our office anytime for a free consultation at (504) 470-3935. We have been helping personal injury victims for over 30 years and can help answer any questions you may have.