Tips for Driving in the Rain

According to a study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly one-quarter of all car accidents during a year happen in adverse weather conditions. Nearly half of those weather-related accidents happen during rainfall. Driving in the rain is inevitable for most people. The following safety tips for driving in poor weather can help prevent you from being another crash statistic.

Check your wipers: It is important to ensure your windshield wipers are in good working order to prevent visibility problems during rainfall. Ideally, they should be replaced every six months to a year. Smearing, streaking, or squeaking when wipers are in use are signs they need to be replaced.

Slow down: It seems like a no-brainer, but many drivers forget to reduce their speed in inclement weather. Drive at a speed you feel comfortable with and do not feel pressured to drive the speed limit. Braking on a wet surface requires more space and time. Leave at least five seconds between you and the car in front of you.

Be aware of hydroplaning: When your car obtains more traction on the surface of the water than the road itself, you are likely to hydroplane. If you begin sliding out of control, slowly stop accelerating and steer straight until you have regained control. Tires without enough tread are more likely to hydroplane, so check your tires on a regular basis for excessive wear and tear.

Turn off cruise control: You should never use cruise control on wet roads. Cruise control makes you more likely to lose control in the rain. If you hydroplane while cruise control is engaged, you will go faster.

Use your headlights: Turning on your headlights not only helps you see better but helps other drivers and pedestrians to see your vehicle. While your headlights are important during rainy weather, remember not to use your high beams. Your high beams can reflect off the water, potentially blinding other drivers around you.

Avoid large puddles: When it comes to determining how deep pooled water is, looks can be deceiving. If you are unable to tell how deep a puddle is, do not take the chance of trying to cross it. A good rule of thumb is that if you cannot see the street markings underneath the water, it is too deep to pass through safely. The extra time a detour adds to your trip is well worth your safety.

Camden County Car Accident Lawyers at DiTomaso Law Work to Determine Who is at Fault for Your Car Accident

If you have been involved in a car accident due to inclement weather or the negligent actions of another driver, Camden County car accident lawyers at DiTomaso Law can help. We investigate all the details of your accident to determine who may be at fault. We will work tirelessly to gather all the facts surrounding your accident and pursue the maximum compensation allowed for your injuries and expenses related to the collision. To discuss your case, call 856-414-0010 or contact us online today. With offices conveniently located in Cherry Hill, New Jersey and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, we proudly serve clients from the surrounding areas.