Five Tips To Avoid Rainy Weather Accidents

The rainy conditions of some roads in Southern California often put us in disadvantage, mostly because many of us are so used to the perfect California weather that avoiding accidents while driving on slippery roads seems like an impossible feat.

But the fact is that avoiding accidents is not impossible at all. Quite the contrary.

Many experts have been coming up with their own rainy driving safety lists. Here at our firm, our attorneys are concerned about our clients and readers’ safety, therefore we decided to also publish a list of tips that could help you to navigate the Southern California roads during these rainy days.

1- Before Hitting The Road, Remember This

The rain makes it harder for drivers to see the road and the vehicles ahead. But that’s not the only problem of driving in the rain; tires will also lose traction due to the film of the water present on the asphalt. As a result, the tires may not be able to perform as well in wet conditions.

After a long period in which there is no rain—something that happens quite often in Los Angeles—roads become covered with engine oil and grease that, overtime, builds up. As soon as the rain starts to pour, the water becomes mixed with the grease, making roads more slick than in any other period. That’s why drivers must use extreme caution whenever it rains in Southern California.

2-Planning Is Your Best Friend

The roads you often use to go to work or drive back home may be your route of choice, but when it rains, they may be flooded or even jammed with a much greater number of cars attempting to make it to their destination in one piece. Because most of us tend to slow down when it rains, drivers should always allow for more time and learn to plan ahead. Instead of attempting to rush, find alternative routes or simply accept that you may take longer to make it to work when it rains. That could help you to avoid accidents.

3- Avoid Accidents By Learning How To Use Your Brakes

Allowing more space between your car and the car ahead is the smartest thing you can do to avoid accidents. But you may only achieve that by also using less force whenever you brake, meaning that you will have to brake earlier than you would normally. This increased stopping distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead helps you by giving you enough time to react in case there’s a problem. It also helps you to avoid accidents by simply making sure that vehicles following behind are aware that you’re slowing down ahead of time.

When turning, make sure to avoid hitting the brakes, instead, slow down before making the curve. With less speed, your vehicle is less likely to slide and crashes can be avoided.

4- Turn Signals, Lights Are Important

Motorists should always use their turn signals, come rain or come shine. The turn signals help to avoid accidents by letting others know just what you intend to do ahead, giving them time to plan.

But when it comes to driving in daytime when it rains, headlights are your best friend. Not only because they help you to see ahead, but also because they keep you visible to others who may otherwise fail to see your vehicle due to the heavy rain fall.

5- Stay Vigilant

Keep your feet close to the pedals and drive with extreme caution. Also, avoid distractions. The rainy weather makes it hard for everyone to see where they are going, if you’re not paying extra attention when it rains, pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles may become hard to see and accidents may ensue.

For more tips for a sound rainy driving spell, click here.