If you drive regularly on Central Florida roads, you must be knowing that avoiding wet road conditions is nearly impossible. Rain may cause you to drive uncontrollably and have poor vision, particularly at night, and may also make your automobile slide. As a matter of fact, rain leads to more crashes than snow. This reason is simple – individuals tend to drive more safely in the snow than in the rain.
To be true, rain can be almost as risky as snow to drive in, and may cause just as serious an accident as it may happen in the snow. Hence, it needs the same level of awareness while driving in the rain as it is required in the snow.
All such factors are the major reasons why people behind the wheel need to be extra cautious, given the fact that how rain can contribute to car crashes.
Statistics on Rain-Related Automobile Crashes
Had the public known more about the statistics on rain-related automobile accidents, there would have been greater awareness about the same. Here are some facts and figures about rain-related crashes:
- As stated earlier, each year, rain results in more accidents than snow.
- According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), wet pavement results in 70% of weather-specific vehicle accidents, and rain leads to 46% of weather-specific automobile crashes.
- On average, over 6,000 people die, and 445,000 people suffer injuries because of weather-related automobile accidents.
- Rain contributes to roughly 10% of all automobile accidents in the country.
Tips to Drive Safely When It is Raining
There are countless reasons as to why it is crucial to be more knowledgeable about rain-related automobile crashes. The more knowledgeable a person is about something, the more likelihood of him/her to manage the situation smartly. This simply means that if a person knew about these perilous statistics, they would possibly think twice before speeding through a rainstorm, particularly at night. Below are a few tips to drive safely in the rain:
- Ensure Your Vehicle Is in Great Condition: It is important to make sure that your automobile is duly serviced and maintained to be driven in all types of weather. Every day, prior to hitting the road in your car, spend some minutes checking your car’s headlights, tire treads, turn signals, and taillights. For instance, you may need to replace windshield wipers for better visibility. The tires need to have the proper tread for maximum performance. When driving in Florida, look for tires that are rated for hot and humid weather. Replace or repair any defective or worn out parts as soon as possible.
- Drive Only at the Right Speed: It is crucial to move at the right speed with respect to the weather conditions – which does not necessarily mean the posted speed limit. The posted speed limit is actually the maximum speed to drive under normal conditions that might be too fast to drive safely on wet roads or when it is raining. Hence, plan in advance and have extra time to get to work on rainy days. Avoid using cruise control, as it may cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Moreover, make sure to leave some extra space between vehicles – minimum 5 seconds of following distance between your automobile and the car in front of you. Avoid sudden movements or hard braking as much as you can. While driving in wet weather conditions, the driver must be completely engaged.
- Learn How to Manage a Skid: If your automobile hydroplanes or skids, do not panic. If your vehicle begins to skid, continue steering your vehicle in the direction you want to go to. Applying brakes can make it difficult to control your vehicle. Hydroplaning may cause the tires to ride up on top of the water, similar to a pair of water skis, losing contact with the road. If you happen to be in such a situation, remove your foot from the accelerator in a calm and slow manner. Then, move the steering wheel in the direction your car was moving while hydroplaning and wait until the tires make contact with the road’s surface again.
- Ensure Optimum Visibility: Be sure to keep your headlights on. If your car’s windshield wipers are moving, its lights also should be turned on. Headlights help you see better in the rain. Plus, they help others on the road too, to see your vehicle. If you find that your windshield is fogging up, turn on the rear and front defrosters of your vehicle to enhance your visibility. Florida’s law requires you to use the headlights during the rain. Also, from July 2021 onward, drivers on the road during a downpour are allowed to use their hazard lights under some specific circumstances.
To Conclude
In relation to rain-related car accidents, it is wise to be well informed and smart about the situation. Avoid being an aggressive or a reckless driver when it is raining. Always be extra cautious in such a situation to avoid the unexpected.
If you have sustained losses in an automobile accident due to someone’s reckless behavior in the rain, you may be eligible to receive compensation. MANGAL, PLLC – Clermont Personal Injury Law Firm – represents sufferers in personal injury cases.
Our experienced car accident attorneys in Clermont, Florida may be able to assess your case and pursue the at-fault party for recompense on your behalf while you focus on recovering from your injuries. Call MANGAL, PLLC for a FREE initial consultation, today!