[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Southern California is seeing it’s first wet weather after one of the hottest summers on record.\u00a0 The weather forecast in the San Gabriel Valley calls for a consistent chance of rain throughout the weekend, posing a risk of dangerous driving conditions, especially on the freeways.\u00a0 The first rain after a period of dry weather cause terrible conditions.\u00a0 The water mixes with all the dirt, oil, grease, and grime steadily accumulating throughout the summer, leaving roads incredibly slippery.\u00a0 A downpour helps to clear away the buildup, but the forecast is for drizzle, leaving the roads slippery much longer!<\/p>\n
The rate of accidents on the freeways during wet weather in Southern California increases dramatically, sometimes as much as 300%!\u00a0 It’s important to protect yourself and your family if you take to the roads while it’s raining.\u00a0 There are several techniques to drive safer in stormy weather.<\/p>\n
Slow down<\/strong><\/p>\n In slippery driving conditions, it takes a lot longer to stop a moving vehicle.\u00a0 Driving at a slower, safer speed can help you avoid accidents by being able to stop your vehicle quickly.<\/p>\n Slow down sooner<\/strong><\/p>\n It takes much longer for wet brakes to stop a car.\u00a0 Begin braking earlier than you usually would to ensure your car comes to a stop in time.\u00a0 Slamming on your brakes could cause you to lose control of your vehicle.<\/p>\n Do not tailgate<\/strong><\/p>\n Combining the two points above, if you’re traveling too close to a vehicle that comes to a sudden stop, you may not be able to suddenly stop in time.\u00a0 Leave extra space between you and any vehicles in front of you.<\/p>\n Turn on your headlights<\/strong><\/p>\n If your windshield wipers are on, you are legally required to also have your headlights on.\u00a0 Using your headlights in the rain increases visibility and the ability of others to see your vehicle.<\/p>\n Keep your brights off<\/strong><\/p>\n Headlights help your visibility, but high-beams actually harm it.<\/p>\n Avoid standing water<\/strong><\/p>\n If you see a puddle on the freeway, try to avoid it.\u00a0 Hitting standing water creates the risk of hydroplaning which can cause you to lose control of the vehicle.\u00a0 If you’re unable to avoid a puddle and begin to hydroplane, do not hit the brakes!\u00a0 Instead, take your foot off the gas until you regain control.\u00a0 On surface streets, standing water could be much deeper than you think and you never know if you’re going to hit something hidden beneath the waters.\u00a0 If the water is too deep, you could cause damage to your vehicle’s engine or brakes.<\/p>\n