Tips for Driving in the Rain Safely
While Florida is known as “The Sunshine State,” residents of the state know that when the rain does come down, it can do so quickly and fiercely. Regardless of whether the roads are wet due to a lingering storm system or a sudden summer thunderstorm, rain will always increase the risk of a car accident. It is critical for all Floridians to know how to drive safely in the rain.
While no one can control the weather, you may be held liable if you cause an accident, even if poor weather conditions contributed to it. Below, our Tampa car accident attorney outlines some safety tips for driving in the rain.
Reduce Your Speed
Speeding always increases the risk of car accidents but in heavy rains, it is even more important to slow down, particularly on the interstates and highways. Wet roads require a longer stopping distance and can limit traction on the road. On very wet roads, your vehicle may even hydroplane, meaning your tires travel on a film of water, losing contact with the road. Not only should you ensure you do not speed, but that you actually drive lower than the speed limit.
Turn Your Headlights On
Under state law, you must turn your headlights on any time you use your windshield wipers. This applies to the daytime hours as well as the nighttime because regardless of the time of day, your headlights make you more visible to other drivers.
The Five-Second Rule
In ideal weather conditions, you should keep at least three seconds behind the vehicle in front of you. During rainy conditions, this may not provide you with enough time to slow down or come to a full stop. Instead, you should use the five-second rule and in heavy rain, a six-seven rule. To do this, choose a fixed object at the side of the road. After the vehicle in front of you passed it, count how many seconds it takes for you to also pass it.
Do Not Use Cruise Control
If you use cruise control and start to hydroplane in the rain, your vehicle may actually accelerate and you may lose control of your car. You will have better control if your foot remains on the gas pedal.
Pull Over if Necessary
The rain in Florida can become so heavy that it reduces visibility to zero. In these conditions, continuing to drive is extremely dangerous. If you cannot see the road well, the chances are that other drivers cannot either. If you cannot see, pull over to a rest area or parking lot and wait for the storm to pass. This will not only keep you safe, but other drivers, as well.
Call Our Car Accident Attorney in Tampa Today
If someone else’s negligence during rainy conditions has caused you to suffer injuries, our Tampa car accident attorney at Moore Law can help you hold the other driver liable. Call us now at 813-510-5400 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to get the legal help you need.
Source:
flhsmv.gov/safety-center/driving-safety/safe-summer-travel/
