Visibility can change within seconds, so it is imperative that every driver on the road use extreme caution when driving. In Florida, we have severe rainstorms almost every day during Hurricane Season, which is six months out of the year (June-November).
7 Safety Tips for Driving in the Rain
It is important for drivers to drive as safely as possible in these conditions, so we wanted to provide some safe driving tips for Tampa Bay’s rainy and wet weather.
1. Turn On Headlights
Visibility is usually compromised in rainy conditions. Headlights not only help you see, but they also help other drivers to better see you.
2. Turn On the Radio for Updates
Tune into a local weather station for storm and traffic updates.
3. Brake Cautiously
You should decrease your speed to avoid hydroplaning in a storm, but abrupt braking can cause lock-up and loss of steering control. If you have anti-lock brakes, apply steady, firm pressure to the pedal.
4. Buckle Up
When it is finally safe to venture out, take the extra time to buckle your seatbelt. It is the law in Florida, and statistics continue to show that seatbelts save lives. Four of the reported deaths related to Tropical Story Fay involved motorists who were not wearing their seatbelts.
5. Be Prepared for High Winds
Windy conditions adversely affect all vehicles, particularly high profile vehicles, such as buses and trucks, as well as motorcycles. Gusty wind makes driving difficult, especially when it is rapidly changing speed and direction.
6. Be Prepared for Standing Water
Never drive through flooded areas, even if you are familiar with the roads. Take the time to find an alternate route. The area of roadway you cannot see beneath the water may be washed out or the water may conceal debris, tree branches, or even power lines.
7. Do Not Stop on a Freeway or Heavily Traveled Road
You could become the first link in a chain-reaction collision. If you must pull off the road, use your signals and pull off as far from the road as possible. After pulling off the road, turn on your hazards (hazard lights should only be used when you pull over to show that you are parked on the side of the road).
Remember! Even the most experienced drivers will be involved in car, motorcycle, and trucking accidents due to severe weather conditions. Many people aren’t sure what they should do after an accident, and oftentimes they make spur of the moment statements to police that come back to haunt them, or they fail to speak with witnesses at the scene and are unable to contact them later when issues arise.
Help Us Keep Our Roads Safe by Preventing Distracted Driving
In the event that you are injured or involved in an accident because of someone else’s negligence, please contact us so that we can protect your claim and discuss your legal options. We offer free consultations and represent victims who are injured in all types of accident cases, including trucking, pedestrian, motorcycle, bicycle, railroad, and boating accidents, so contact us today to get started.
If you or someone you love was involved in an accident, call us at (855) 680-4911 or schedule a free consultation.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney/client relationship.