When it’s raining outside, drivers have to be more caution. Unfortunately, not everyone will be. Sometimes, drivers speed or drive recklessly even though the conditions aren’t good.
Rain, especially heavy rain, can cause a few issues for drivers. These include dealing with reduced traction on the roads, decreasing visibility and creating flooded areas that make drivers prone to hydroplaning.
To stay safer, here are a few tips to help you stay safe when rain storms occur. Remember, drivers who are reckless in these conditions can be held liable if they cause a collision.
Slow down in dangerous rain storms
The first thing to consider is that you should slow down when the rain is coming down so hard that your visibility is diminished. You may be pressured to get to your destination, but slowing down makes it easier to stop if someone ahead of you suddenly puts on their brakes or if you feel that you’re hydroplaning.
Avoid flooded areas
Avoiding areas of the road where water has gathered is another good tip. Flooding that is so deep that you can’t see the marking on the road is too deep for your vehicle. Remember, you could lose control if even three inches of water gathers beneath your vehicle. If water gets into the engine, your car could stop working.
Pull over if you need to
Finally, remember that you can pull over if you need to. Try to find an area that is above the flooding, and park your vehicle there. Turn on your hazard lights, too, so that your vehicle will be more visible to others who may be approaching.
If you don’t feel safe driving, it’s reasonable to pull over to the side of the road, but do take steps to make sure your vehicle is out of the lane of travel.
These are three tips to help you in flooded and rainy conditions. If someone does hit you and cause a car crash because they attempt to speed through a storm or suddenly brake to avoid a flooded area, then you may be able to hold them accountable and seek compensation for the damage and injuries caused.
