Wet pavement is responsible for approximately 1.2 million
traffic accidents each year in the United States. Many accidents occur in the rain when
drivers fail to adjust their driving habits from those they use during
dry weather to those that are more suited to wet, slippery conditions.
We at Roman & Gaynor want you and your family to stay safe on the road.
With the winter season approaching, keep these safe driving tips in mind:
- Replace your windshield wipers if they are torn or no longer clear your
windshield in one swipe.
- Make sure your turn signal, headlights, and taillights are in good working
order to ensure that other drivers on the road will be able to see you clearly.
- Even if you are driving during the day, always turn on your headlights
when driving in rainy conditions.
- Check the tread depth on your tires. Bald tires have more difficulty gripping
the road, making it more likely that your vehicle will skid on a wet road.
- Leave enough following distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead of you.
- Slow down and avoid hard braking or turning to reduce your car’s
chance of hydroplaning.
- Avoid cruise control. While safe during dry conditions, it can increase
your chances of losing control of your vehicle in the rain.
- If your vehicle begins to skid, try not to panic. Avoid slamming on the
brakes and continue to steer the car in the right direction.
Driving in the rain requires extra caution, so make sure you drive at a
safe, reduced speed. For safe turning, ensure that you brake, turn, and
accelerate one at a time to avoid skids and rollovers caused by taking
turns too quickly. And finally, remember that adequate vehicle maintenance
can go a long way in keeping you safe in the rain.
We hope you have found these tips helpful!
Injured in a car accident? Contact a Clearwater car accident lawyer at
Roman & Gaynor to begin exploring your options for legal recourse.
Request your
free consultation online today.