To be a truly safe driver, you must know how to drive in all types of weather. Most people realize the dangers of driving in snowy or icy conditions, but many do not realize that rain and wind can also pose dangers. Us at Brent George Law have gathered some statistics and provided information on driving responsibly in the rain.

Rain and Car Accidents

According to the Federal Highway Administration, millions of weather-related accidents occur each year. On average, nearly 574,000 of those accidents occur during rainy conditions. For this reason, it is very important to take proper safety precautions when driving in inclement weather.

Slow Down and Keep Your Distance

You should always drive within the speed limit anyway, but when driving during inclement weather, slow down even more. Very slick roads can cause your vehicle to hydroplane if you’re driving too fast, and the faster you’re going, the harder it will be to correct the car and get back on track. Don’t assume you’re safe just because it’s barely sprinkling. In fact, roads are actually slicker when the rain first begins because the precipitation mixes with the oils in the pavement, so if possible, put off running errands until the skies clear. If you absolutely must drive, be sure to keep extra distance between you and other vehicles. This ensures you have adequate room to stop if you hit traffic or if you find yourself behind an accident. Turn on your lights when driving in the rain, especially if you have a gray vehicle that blends in to the pavement and skies on a cloudy day.

Understand the Wind

Before you begin driving in rainy weather, check the local weather report to see if gusty winds are expected. The key to driving safely in wind is anticipation. When driving in high winds, always keep both hands on the wheel. This will help you to correct your car more easily if the winds push you around on the road. Winds are more likely to move large vehicles and vehicles that are towing something, so keep these factors in mind as well. 18-wheelers are especially prone to being pushed by wind gusts, so avoid driving near them if possible.

Unfortunately accidents can happen no matter how safe you are, especially if other people aren’t driving safely. If you were injured in a weather-related accident that was not your fault, a personal injury attorney at Brent George Law can help you get the compensation you need for medical and mechanical bills. Call us for a free consultation.