Stay Safe in Wet Weather

Rain contributes to about 1.2 million motor vehicle accidents every year.  Prevent collisions by preparing ahead of time for rainy conditions.

AAA recommends several steps you can take to make sure your car is ready for the rain. Replace windshield wipers once they start leaving streaks or stop clearing the glass with one swipe.  Make sure headlights, taillights, and brake lights are working so others drivers can see you on the road through the rain. Proper tire tread is crucial to keeping good traction on wet roads, and AAA recommends checking your tire pressure at least once a month.

When you are driving in the midst of a rainstorm, keep a slower speed.  Vehicles traveling faster than 35 mph are more likely to experience hydroplaning than those traveling less than 35 mph. Hydroplaning is the skidding or sliding of a car that occurs when the tire cannot scatter water fast enough. According to American Safety Counsel, your chances of hydroplaning decrease greatly if you avoid hard braking, turn off cruise control, drive in a lower gear, and avoid driving in standing water.

If you do experience a skid, the American Safety Counsel says to continue to steer in the direction you want the car to travel. Although it is often the first instinct, do not slam on the breaks.  This could cause you to even lose more control of your car.

Our experienced attorneys can help you get the compensation you deserve if you are injured by a negligent driver. Contact partners Christopher Fleming for a Pennsylvania accident at (215) 567-1530. Partner Greg Sciolla can be reached at (856) 273-6679 to inquire about a New Jersey accident.

Published November 8, 2017