Driving during heavy rain and storms increases the risk of accidents happening on the road. But sometimes, driving during bad weather simply can’t be avoided. You may be caught in a downpour with no alternative but to keep driving, or maybe you have somewhere critically important to be just as the rain starts to get heavier.
As well as potential casualties and damage, if an accident occurs during bad weather in Palm Harbor or St Petersburg, you could still be liable even if the weather was a big factor in why the accident happened.
No matter what the reasons are for being out on the road in bad weather, there are various things that could help to decrease your chances of being involved in a road accident. Let’s look at some of the steps you can take to make driving in bad weather a little bit safer.
Drive Slower
This is one of the main things you should remember when driving in bad weather. When driving during heavy rainfall, drive slower than you would if it wasn’t raining. Be aware that your vehicle will take longer to brake on wet and slippery roads, which can increase the chance of a car accident with others in front or behind you. Tires are less effective at maintaining traction on the road when it is experiencing heavy rainfall.
Pay Even More Attention to the Road
You should always pay plenty of attention to the road and your surroundings when you are driving. In a downpour, it is even more important to pay attention to the road and any other vehicles around you. Attention should also be given to potential cyclists or pedestrians, whose vision may also be impaired by poor weather and who may be less visible to you due to the rainfall.
Pull Over and Delay Your Journey
If it is safe to do so, you should always consider the possibility of delaying your journey and either pulling over to the side of the road or postponing your journey altogether. It is generally much safer to drive when the weather has improved, so unless your journey is essential, consider avoiding driving during heavy rainfall and rearrange your trip for another time.
Look After Your Vehicle
Vehicles in bad condition are less likely to withstand bad weather and could be more likely to end up in a car accident. Conducting regular checks and inspections of your vehicle will help you to identify any problems early on and can make your car safer to drive on the road during heavy rainfall. For example, making sure the brakes are not worn out will ensure you can brake swiftly if needed and with maximum impact. You can also consider upgrading your tires to withstand water and heavy rains more effectively.
Switch on Your Lights
Switching on your headlights can help other drivers to see your vehicle while also making it easier for you to see ahead. This can be an important safety measure to take when driving during heavy rainfall. If the weather is foggy, you should always ensure your fog lights are switched on. Be aware that using lights does not reduce the need to drive slower and take other precautionary measures when driving in challenging weather.
Getting Help if You Are Involved in a Car Accident
If you have been involved in an accident and need professional legal support in Palm Harbor or St Petersburg, you can get in touch with Blenner Law Group. Experienced attorneys can offer specialist advice and support to deal with the challenges ahead.
Picture Credit: Pexels