Southern California may be known for its sunny weather but this can actually make it much more dangerous when it does. Not only do drivers not necessarily know how to drive in the rain, but the oil on the road can mix with the fresh rainwater to create extremely slippery conditions. We strongly recommend not driving in heavy rain but if you must do so, then follow these seven tips.
- Make sure your tires are safe
- Make sure your windshield wipers are safe
- Turn on your headlights
- Keep your cruise control off
- Know what to do if you hydroplane
- Slow down
- Leave extra room between you and the vehicle in front of you
The tread on your tires is designed the way it is to create grip by forcing any debris away from the tire contact point – and this includes water. As your tread wears down, it is more likely that the tires will slip on wet surfaces. Your tires should be checked regularly for signs of leaks, punctures, wear, and damage.
If your wipers are functioning correctly then they will help improve visibility in rain. If they are worn out or dirty then they can leave wet patches or streaks on the windshield.
California law states that if you are driving in inclement weather, then you must have your headlights on. The rule of thumb to follow is that if you need to turn on your wipers then you should turn on your headlights.
Cruise control is designed for use in a specific circumstance: When you are driving on the highway in good weather. If you use it during a rainstorm, your risk of hydroplaning goes up significantly. Cruise control does not know that there is water on the road and cannot respond to it.
If your wheels do not make contact with the road and instead skim over the surface of the rain water, then you are hydroplaning. This can be frightening and many people’s first instinct is to slam on the breaks. This is the opposite of what you should do. Instead, keep your hands on the wheel, take your foot off the gas pedal and wait for your tires to make contact.
It takes longer to stop on a wet road than on a dry one. You should be traveling no more than five or ten miles below the speed limit when it is raining.
As mentioned above, it takes longer to stop when driving on a wet road. As a result, you should leave extra room between you and the vehicle in front of you. This assures that if they brake suddenly, you have more room to prevent a collision.
Nothing can prevent all car accidents. If you are injured in a car accident, call 909-982-0707 to speak to Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas, an attorney that is well respected and recommend by his peers.
