[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]It's no secret that Southern California drivers are not the most adept at driving in the rain. As we enter an El Niño winter season, we could see a lot of rain and a lot of traffic. This first week of December's weather could become very familiar over the next few months.
Up to four times as many car accidents occur when it rains in Southern California. If you have to drive, following some wet weather driving tips can help you reach your destination safely.
Before driving, be prepared
Make sure your headlights, windshield wipers, and brakes are working properly. Being rushed in rainy weather can cause an accident, so be sure to plan ahead. Allow extra time to reach your destination.
Slow down
It takes more time to slow down when the roads are slippery. Staying at a lower maximum speed can make it easier to stop your car suddenly, making some accidents avoidable.
Begin braking earlier
Wet brakes are less effective, causing cars to take longer to come to a stop. Braking sooner than usual will allow for more time for your vehicle to come to a complete stop. Suddenly braking in wet weather can cause a driver to lose control of their car.
Avoid tailgating
Travel too closely to a vehicle in wet weather and you may not have the ability to avoid a crash if the car comes to a quick stop. Leaving extra space between vehicles can prevent rear end accident when it's raining.
Turn on your headlights
Headlights provided added visibility to others when it's raining. It may not help you see other cars in the daytime, but it definitely helps other cars see you. It's a legal requirement to turn on your headlights if you are using your windshield wipers.
Do not turn on your high beams
Using your brights can hurt your visibility and place other drivers in danger. They should not be used in wet weather.
Try to avoid puddles and pooling water
Flooding has been known to happen on the freeways during heavy rain storms. If you see a pool of water, be extremely careful, because not only do you not know how deep the water is, you also don't know what's hiding in it. Puddles also create a risk of hydroplaning, which causes your tires to not be in contact with the pavement. If you experience hydroplaning, do not use your breaks, but instead decelerate by removing your foot from the gas pedal. You will eventually regain control. Using your breaks while hydroplaning can cause you to lose control of the vehicle.
If you’re involved in an accident, contact an experienced car accident lawyer
The Law Offices of Scott Warmuth helps people who have been in an auto accident seek medical treatment, repair their vehicles, recover lost wages, and obtain compensation for pain and suffering. Call us at 888-517-9888 to schedule your free consultation.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
